Elizabethton Schools Achieve Dual Recognition in Dual Enrollment

Elizabethton City Schools received significant recognition for its high level of participation in a dual-enrollment partnership with the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT). During a Board of Education meeting on October 9, 2023, Dr. Richard Church, TCAT Vice President of Instruction, Dual Enrollment, and Accreditation, announced that this is the first time a school district has achieved the bronze level for both the number of students and the percentage of its student body engaged in dual enrollment.

Currently, 222 students from Elizabethton High School are enrolled in the TCAT program, which constitutes approximately 27 percent of the school’s total population. Dr. Church emphasized that many students are taking advantage of opportunities offered both on TCAT’s campus and through embedded programs in areas such as STEM, advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, computer information technology, building construction, criminal justice, off-road diesel, and a new pre-practical nursing program in collaboration with Ballad Academy.

Students enrolled in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes receive credits aimed at preparing them for high-demand careers essential for economic development. Dr. Church noted, “Some of them never use that credit. We’ve seen some of them not use it immediately after graduation but then come back, and that credit is sitting there waiting for them.”

This dual-enrollment program not only facilitates immediate career readiness but also offers students the chance to earn valuable certifications while still in high school. For instance, several students have achieved certificates in the Computer Information Technology program prior to graduation.

TCAT’s Extensive Reach and Impact

TCAT operates six campuses serving over 2,500 students across a five-county area, with its main campus in Elizabethton. The institution began recognizing school districts for their participation levels in dual enrollment three years ago. This initiative underscores the importance of preparing students for sustainable careers that meet current labor market demands.

Elizabethton City Schools’ accomplishment highlights a growing trend in educational partnerships aimed at enhancing student outcomes through practical learning opportunities.

Personnel Updates from Recent Board Meeting

In addition to the dual enrollment recognition, several personnel changes were announced during the recent Board meeting. New hires include:

– Julie Miller, Educational Leader in the Extended School Program, effective October 9, 2023.
– Connor Johnson, Educational Assistant and Assistant Football Coach at Elizabethton High School, effective October 8, 2023.
– Dalton Williams, Wrestling Coach at Elizabethton High School, effective October 8, 2023.

Several transfers were also reported, such as Karen Kirkpatrick-Gagnon moving from a part-time to a full-time educational assistant role at Elizabethton High School. The board acknowledged resignations, including Cora Sue Pike, an educational assistant at Harold McCormick Elementary School, effective September 2, 2023.

Leaves of absence were noted for Liz Grill, Bookkeeper at Harold McCormick Elementary School, effective January 5 to April 10, 2026, and Cindy Walker, Administrative Specialist at the central office, from September 23 to October 3, 2023.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on November 20, 2023, in the Mack Pierce Board Room located at 804 S. Watauga Ave., Elizabethton. This meeting will provide further opportunities for community engagement and discussion on educational initiatives.