TCTC receives 5 stars | News, sports, work

CHAMPION — The Trumbull Career and Technical Center received a five-star rating in the latest state report for 2023-2024, an increase of 4.5 stars from the previous school year.

Paula Baco, the high school’s principal, said the five-star rating is based on the number of 2023 graduates, post-program internships and on-the-job learning hours that track students whether they are working, have enlisted in the military or attended college at or trade school.

This success is attributed to the literacy initiative, which includes integrating reading into all subjects.

“We did well on technical skills scores and student performance in final exams, which gave us 4.5 to five stars,” – Baco said. “We were able to mention the students’ achievements.”

She said 2022-23 was the first year the state awarded stars to joint vocational schools that previously received an overall rating.

Baco said TCTC earned five stars for graduation rate, career and postsecondary readiness and ACT scores. In post-program results, which show what students are doing three to six months after graduation, the school earned four stars, as well as four stars for achievement.

“We always had to monitor the situation of students. This is the measurement career that technology centers have always had. We came up with the three E program – checking whether students are employed, enrolled in college, university or an apprenticeship program.” – Baco said.

She said career center report cards are different from homeschool district report cards. Baco said homeschooling is not measured like joint career track schools.

High school performance is assessed based on students’ performance at the end of classes in math, science, English and history.

“We are proud that we have increased our scores on career technical assessments with a focus on literacy, and that 61.8% of students achieved industry credentials.” – Baco said.

She said the Ohio Department of Education and Labor places a high value on students earning industry credentials, which include licenses in a variety of areas such as nursing, dental assisting and cosmetology.

“The students not only completed the program, but earned all the certifications they needed to pursue a career in their field,” Baco said.

TCTC Superintendent Jason Gray said he is proud of the work of students and staff that contributed to the five-star rating.