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Meet Eleni Papadakis, NASDCTEc Region X Representative

August 27th, 2012

In order for our members to know the individuals who serve them at the national level, NASDCTEc presents a blog series called “Meet Your Board Members;” today we are featuring Eleni Papadakis, Region X Representative, and State Director of Washington. Region X encompasses Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

Eleni Papadakis was appointed by Washington’s Governor Christine Gregoire in 2007 as the Executive Director of the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board, more commonly known as the Workforce Board. Business, labor and government stakeholders are equally represented on this tri-partite board, which oversees 18 different state and federal funding streams in the state’s comprehensive workforce development system.

Eleni came to Washington with more than 25 years of experience in the workforce development arena–from service delivery through state and federal policy work. Eleni came to Washington from Commonwealth Corporation, a Massachusetts quasi-public corporation, where she established the Center for Workforce Innovation, a research and demonstration arm of the state’s workforce development system, and a national consulting organization on economic and workforce development strategies Leading up to that role, Eleni oversaw the development and implementation of numerous state-wide and regional initiatives, for special population groups and for targeted industry sectors, including biotechnology, fiber optics, manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, telecommunications and software. She also helped facilitate Massachusetts’ transition to WIA and the development of a state plan to eradicate healthcare workforce shortages.

Eleni has also worked in business–including operating her own small business, a bistro-entertainment venue–and lead a multi-service community-based organization for 9 years. Eleni holds a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Assumption College and Bachelors in Psychology from Clark University, both in Worcester, Massachusetts.

When asked for her goals as a Board Member, Eleni said “My interests are in making certain that high quality Career Technical Education is accessible to all students, that we have clear and accessible pathways from secondary to post-secondary education, and that career success for all students is our ultimate mission.”

NASDCTEc appreciates Eleni’s willingness to serve as a Board member. She can be reached at [email protected].

Ramona Schescke, Member Services Manager

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Announcing the 2012 NASDCTEc Fall Meeting

July 28th, 2012

Make your plans now to attend the 2012 NASDCTEc Fall Meeting!

Don’t miss this exciting professional development opportunity for State Directors, Career Technical Education (CTE) Leaders, and individuals who contribute to the CTE community at the national, state, and local levels. This meeting is different from any you’ve experienced. We are dedicating an entire day to professional development, focusing on the multiple roles you face as change agent, coalition builder, leader, advocate – and equipping you with the tools you need to be an effective leader in a constantly changing environment.

We’re looking forward to seeing you this fall in the heartland of America – Omaha, Nebraska. Here is general information as you make your plans.

When October 11-13, 2012

Where Embassy Suites Omaha – Downtown/Old Market
555 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68102 Phone 1-402-346-9000
Check-in: 3 p.m. Check-out: NOON
Parking: Self-parking is $10.00 daily; valet parking is $16.00 daily

Registration Rates Now through September 14, 2012: NASDCTEc Member – $425; Non-Member – $600
On or after September 15, 2012:NASDCTEc Member – $525; Non-Member – $700

Reservations We have secured a special group rate of $91 plus any applicable taxes for suite rooms. This rate is effective through September 17, 2012. After that date, all rooms available are subject to the prevailing regular hotel rates.

Transportation Distance from airport: The hotel is within 4 miles of Eppley Airfield – only 5 minutes away. The hotel has a complimentary airport shuttle to/from the airport. Guests may call the hotel directly at 402-346-9000 for pickup service as they land. The hotel’s van will meet guests across the street outside of door #4. As guests depart the hotel, the hotel runs the shuttle service every ½ hour. Guests may coordinate travel schedule needs with the bell desk, valet or Front Desk agent. The hotel’s shuttle is also available complimentary within a 3 mile radius of the hotel.

Attire is business casual. October weather in Omaha can range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s; you will want to pack a light jacket or sweater.

Quick Links

Questions? Please call 301-588-9630 and we will be happy to help!

We are looking forward to seeing you this fall at the 2012 NASDCTEc Fall Meeting!

Ramona Schescke, Member Services Manager

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New NASDCTEc Officers Take Lead as CTE Adopts Common Standards, Prepare for Reauthorization

July 27th, 2012

NASDCTEc officers this month commenced their one-year term. The officers take the reins at a time when the Career Technical Education (CTE) community moves forward with implementing rigorous and common standards for CTE, advocating for fiscal support, building increased visibility, awareness and support and preparing for the reauthorization of the federal legislation that governs CTE.

“This is such an exciting time to be part of the Career Technical Education (CTE) community in this nation. Quality secondary and postsecondary CTE programs provide individuals with options and pathways to success in our global economy.  I am honored to serve members of this association that is committed to enhancing access and opportunities to quality CTE programs,” said Marie Barry, NASDCTEc President and State Director of the Office of Career and Technical Education at the New Jersey Department of Education.

NASDCTEc officers include:

  • President, Marie Barry, New Jersey Director of the Office of Career and Technical Education
  • Vice President, John Fischer, Vermont Deputy Commissioner, Vermont Department of Education
  • Secretary/Treasurer, Scott Stump, Colorado’s Associate Provost for Career & Technical Education.
  • Past President, Dr. Patrick Ainsworth, Ed. D., California Assistant Superintendent and Director; Secondary, Career, and Adult Learning Division; Department of Education.

In June, NASDCTEc unveiled the Common Career Technical Core (CCTC), a state-led initiative to establish a set of rigorous, high-quality standards for CTE that states can adopt voluntarily. Forty-two states, Washington, DC, and Palau declared support for the development of the CCTC, which were informed by state and industry standards and developed by a diverse group of teachers, business and industry experts, administrators and researchers.

NASDCTEc’s advocacy work will focus on preparing for the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act and ensure that the legislation will support states in advancing high-quality CTE amid tough fiscal conditions, as well as continuing to build visibility and support for the CTE: Learning That Works for America campaign.

Learn more about the NASDCTEc officers by reading their biographies.

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Representatives to Host CTE Congressional Caucus Event, Highlight Harvard Report

July 20th, 2012

Representatives Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Glenn Thompson (R-PA), co-chairs of the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus will present a briefing on the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Pathways to Prosperity Project on Tuesday, July 24. 

Pathways to Prosperity: Meeting the Challenge of Preparing Young Americans for the 21st Century, is a report that has resonated across the country, and the authors have now spoken in more than 30 states.  The report addresses the challenges associated with preparing young Americans for successful careers and closing the “skills gap.” William Symonds, the report’s primary author and director of the Pathways to Prosperity Project, will lead the discussion.

Panelists:

  • William Symonds, Director, Pathways to Prosperity Project
  • Kimberly Green, Executive Director, National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc)
  • Jeff Mays, President, Illinois Business Roundtable
  • Jason Tyszko, Deputy Chief of Staff, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
  • Eric Regelin, Director, National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and Chairman, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)                                   

When: 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Where: Rayburn House Office Building, Gold Room (2168)

Learn more: http://www.gse.harvard.edu/news-impact/tag/pathways-to-prosperity/

Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) Sen. Herb Kohl (D-WI) Honored with CTE Stars of Education Award, Distinguished Service

June 19th, 2012

NASDCTEc today honored Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Herb Kohl (D-WI) with the Stars of Education Award, Distinguished Service: Congressional  for demonstrating a high level of national leadership, vision, and achievement in Career Technical Education (CTE). NASDCTEc Board of Directors presented the awards to the Senators today at the National Career Clusters™ Institute in Washington, DC.

The award is given to members or former members of Congress who have demonstrated their support for CTE through meritorious contribution, innovative or unique achievements, expansion of the impact of or investment in CTE on students, and/or evidence of superior performance.

“Now more than ever, Career Technical Education needs the support from leaders such as Senators Richard Blumenthal and Herb Kohl, who both have advocated for funding and legislation that helps to prepare students for college and careers through quality CTE programs,” said Dr. Pat Ainsworth President of the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium and California CTE State Director.

Sen. Blumenthal, the former Attorney General of Connecticut, is now serving his first term in the United States Senate. As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Senator Blumenthal has made CTE and the Carl D. Perkins Career Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins) a top priority. Sen. Blumenthal has authored several letters to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and his fellow Senators, urging them to invest in CTE through increased Perkins Act funding.

Sen. Blumenthal has also introduced bills that aim to increase workforce training and business and industry partnerships, including the Manufacturing Reinvestment Account Act, the Pathways Back to Work Act, and the Community College Innovation Act.

Sen. Herb Kohl has served in the United States Senate since 1988.  Hesdfacxmls He is a member of the Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee.  Just this year, he signed onto several letters urging OMB and Congress to invest in Perkins.  Sen. Kohl also introduced the Fast Track to College Act this session, which aims to improve the transition of high school students to postsecondary education through dual enrollment and early college high schools.

Sen. Kohl serves as Chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee and has received numerous awards for his dedication to agriculture issues, including agricultural research and education, family farms, and other issues affecting rural communities.

Finally, he has also demonstrated support to the manufacturing industry. Sen. Kohl worked to restore funding to the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, a public-private partnership that utilizes federal, state, and private dollars to provide technical support and services to help small and medium-sized manufacturers create and retain jobs.

Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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NASDCTEc Will Unveil the Common Standards for CTE at National Career Clustersâ„¢ Institute on June 19

June 14th, 2012

The National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) will release the Common Career Technical Core (CCTC) — a set of rigorous, high-quality CTE standards to be shared by states– at the National Career Clusters â„¢ Institute  on June 19, 2012.

Forty-two states, Washington, DC and Palau participated in the development of the CCTC. The development of the CCTC was a multi-step process that incorporated input at various stages from approximately 3,500 individuals representing K-12 education, business and industry and higher education from across the nation.

Who:  National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium

What: Common Career Technical Core Unveiling

Where:   National Career Clusters ™ Institute at the Omni Shore, located at 2500 Calvert Street NW,  Washington, DC 20008

When:  Tuesday, June 19, 8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

The Institute is an annual summer event that offers a range of seminars and workshops highlighting model CTE programs across the country that are aligned to the National Career Clusters Framework™.  More than 800 secondary and postsecondary educators and administrators, workforce development and industry partners, and counselors will attend. The NASDCTEc Spring Meeting, an event in which CTE State Directors from across the nation convene to discuss public policy issues, will run concurrently with the Institute.

Media interested in attending the Institute or scheduling an interview should contact Erin Uy at [email protected] or 301-641-9358.

 

Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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NASDCTEc Seeks Input on Common Standards for Career Technical Education Programs

May 1st, 2012

The opportunity for the public to comment on the Common Career Technical Core (CCTC), a shared set of rigorous, high-quality Career Technical Education (CTE) standards developed and validated by education and industry experts begins today. The public comment period will run April 30 – May 11, 2012 and all CTE stakeholders, including educators, administrators, and industry are urged to participate in this process.

The public comment period is an opportunity for CTE stakeholders to participate in the development process of the CCTC, which is intended to help ensure all CTE students have access to high-quality, rigorous career-focused learning opportunities in every state, and every community across the nation. The CCTC will complement and support other comprehensive college and career ready standards, such as the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in English Language Arts and Mathematics. The CCTC initiative is being facilitated by the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc).

Forty-two states have declared support for the development of the CCTC. Each of the 42 states; Washington, DC and Palau nominated experts from a range of sectors — from business and industry to education — to participate in working groups charged with the development of the CCTC in the spring of 2012.

Once the public comment period ends on May 11, 2012 the state-nominated working groups will review the public feedback and incorporate changes to the draft standards.  The final standards are slated for public release at the National Career Clusters ™ Institute  on June 19, 2012. Click here and learn more about the CCTC online or visit www.careertech.org.

 Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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Gallup and Harvard Education Leaders Join CTE Foundation Board of Directors

April 3rd, 2012

Tim Hodges, Director of Research for Gallup’s Education Practice, and William (Bill) Symonds, Director of the Harvard Graduate School of Education Pathways to Prosperity Project, have joined the Board of Directors of the National Career Technical Education Foundation (NCTEF). Hodges and Symonds bring to NCTEF their reputable experience in and longstanding commitment to quality education.

Dean Folkers, NCTEF Deputy Executive Director, calls Hodges and Symons “visionary leaders who are committed to charting a new path for education in America” who will help NCTEF’s work in supporting and pursuing high-quality CTE.

Under NASDCTEc, NCTEF develops and funds activities and programs that are designed to improve CTE.  NCTEF has focused significant efforts in support of Career Clusters ™ projects and efforts to increase the visibility and advance quality of CTE. As public members of the Board of Directors these leaders will advise and influence the policy and direction of the work NCTEF supports in CTE and Career Clusters™

Hodges consults with K-12 school districts and higher education institutions to lead research projects in strengths development, employee selection and engagement, and wellbeing.   Hodges experienced formal CTE through marketing and agricultural programs, and served in leadership roles for Career Technical Student Organizations as well.

Symonds is the primary author of a groundbreaking report – Pathways to Prosperity: Meeting the Challenge of Preparing Young Americans for the 21st Century – which was released in February 2011.  Since, he has been invited to speak about the report in more than half the 50 states. The report analyzes the reasons America has failed to prepare so many of its youth to lead successful lives as adults, and notably suggests supporting high-quality, comprehensive pathways, such as those used in CTE, that will lead students to a certificate or a postsecondary credential.

Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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Forty-One States and DC Declare Support for Development of Shared Set of CTE Standards

March 26th, 2012

NASDCTEc announced today that state leaders from across the nation are uniting to spearhead an initiative to develop a Common Career Technical Core (CCTC), a set of shared state standards for Career Technical Education (CTE).

NASDCTEc  is coordinating the state-led effort, which will complement and support comprehensive college and career ready standards, such as the Common Core State Standards Initiative (CCSI) in English Language Arts and Mathematics. The CCTC will build a common connection among states to help prepare CTE students for high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand jobs. Forty-one states; Washington, DC and Palau have signed a declaration of support for the CCTC initiative, pledging their involvement in the development stage.

A range of stakeholders from business and industry to educators will be involved in the multi-step process to develop the CCTC. The development of the standards will be led by working groups made up of state-nominated experts from a variety of sectors. Their involvement will help ensure that the CCTC reflects the timely education and workforce needs of today’s global economy.

The working groups convened for the first time this week. Later in the spring, NASDCTEc will seek public comment on the draft standards. Final standards are scheduled for public release in June 2012, at which point states will move individually to adopt and implement the CCTC.

Erin Uy, Communications & Marketing Manager

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CTE Month: NASDCTEc Launches Facebook Page

February 22nd, 2012

NASDCTEc has launched its Facebook page! Log in to Facebook, Like our page and gain access to up-to-date information on NASDCTEc and CTE news. We will keep you connected to the latest CTE happenings and link you to the CTE community.

Support NASDCTEc and CTE by:

  • Liking us on Facebook
  • Adding us to your Favorite Pages through your organization, agency or business Facebook page
  • Forwarding this to your friends and colleagues, asking them to Like us on Facebook
Erin Uy, Communications and Marketing Manager

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