Hello and welcome! 

We’re so glad you’ve joined us for the launch of our CTE and STEAM blog. Whether you’re a parent, student, educator, or community member, this space is for you. Our goal is simple: to keep you informed, inspired, and connected to all the exciting things happening in Career & Technical Education (CTE) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) this year.

In Bay District Schools, the goal of CTE & STEAM is Options. With options, students gain the skills necessary to be successful in whichever arena they choose post-high school graduation. Students who participate in CTE & STEAM courses will be armed with the knowledge necessary to be successful at the University of their choice. Upon completion of high school, students who participate in CTE courses will be talented enough to compete with other job seekers for high-skilled/high-wage positions in our emerging global economy. This blog will serve as your behind-the-scenes look into our opportunities, such as programs, students’ journeys, and community partnerships that make it all possible.

A Snapshot of the Year Ahead

We have an exciting year ahead!  Students have the opportunity to explore our current pathways in areas like engineering, health sciences, information technology, digital design, and culinary arts.

Some highlights include: 

• Industry Certification and Certificate opportunities for students in grades 4 – 12. Students can graduate with credentials that give them a head start in the workforce.
• Expanded career exploration and future planning with the Xello College and Career Readiness platform. This resource is free to all students as part of Florida’s Workforce Readiness initiative.
• Stronger partnerships with local businesses and organizations, creating exposure to more careers and opportunities.
• Signature events like our Career Expo, slated for the end of January 2026. Student participation in events and competitions that bring learning to life.

What Students Will Experience

Learning in CTE and STEAM is anything but ordinary. Students will be:

• Designing and building projects from start to finish.
• Using industry-standard tools and technology.
• Tackling real-world challenges that require teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Earning certifications and credentials that employers value.
• Exploring career possibilities through guest speakers, field trips, and hands-on experiences.

These opportunities aren’t just about preparing for a job – they’re about preparing for a future full of choices and confidence.

How the Community Can Get Involved

Our programs thrive because of the support and involvement of our community. You can help by: 

• Volunteering to speak to students about your career journey or industry.
• Offering mentorships, internships, or workplace tours.
  
• Donating materials, equipment, or sponsoring events and scholarships.
  
• Connecting us with organizations that share our mission of preparing students for success.

Your expertise, resources, and encouragement make a difference in students’ lives.

Celebrating Success Stories

This year, you can expect to see student spotlights, teacher highlights, and various updates here on the blog. We’ll share the stories of innovation, perseverance, and achievement that inspire us—and we hope they’ll inspire you, too. These moments are a reminder of why we do this work and why CTE & STEAM matter for our community’s future.

Staying Connected

Want to keep up with everything happening in CTE & STEAM?

• Subscribe to our blog or newsletter for updates.
  
• Follow us on Instagram at @bdsctefutureready  for quick news, photos, and reminders.
  
• Check out our Bay District Schools CTE Website at: https://bay.k12.fl.us/career-and-technical-education/ to learn more about CTE and STEAM in Bay District Schools.
• Reach out to our team anytime with questions, ideas, or partnership opportunities by emailing Jonathon Moore, CTE Supervisor, at: moorej1@bay.k12.fl.us.

Closing Thoughts

We’re excited for a year full of learning, growth, and innovation. With your support, our students will continue to dream big, work hard, and shape the future. Thank you for being part of this journey—together, we’re creating Opportunity.

Here’s to an amazing year ahead!