On August 1, 2024, Culpeper County Public Schools (CCPS) Career and Technical Education (CTE) department held its "Educators in the Workforce" Professional Development day, marking the return of a program designed to immerse teachers in real-world business and industry settings. This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between classroom learning and current industry practices. With plans to expand to other teachers and employee groups in the future, the day provided invaluable insights and opportunities for educators to bring real-world applications back into the classroom.
The primary goal of the Educators in the Workforce program is to equip educators with a deeper understanding of workplace practices, policies, and the essential skills that align with today’s labor market. By engaging directly with local businesses, teachers and counselors can better incorporate relevant industry knowledge and skills into their pedagogical practices. The first-hand exposure allows educators to design and implement more meaningful classroom activities, projects, and work-based learning opportunities, enhancing students’ understanding of how their lessons apply to the world beyond school.
“The program encourages our teachers to explore, ask questions, and participate in industry practices where appropriate,” said Ainsley Cockerille, Work Based Learning Coordinator. “This helps them create a bridge between theory and practice, adding relevance to what students are learning and offering fresh perspectives.”
This year’s participants visited a range of local businesses, including:
Culpeper Baptist Child Development Center
Cedar Mountain Stone
Elysium
FredNats
Kat Tines Cookies
Little Burros/Joy Orr
Marriott Ranch
Old House Vineyards
Shear Artistry
Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office
Town of Culpeper
UVA Health
UVA Hospital
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)
During the visits, educators were able to observe various aspects of operations and engage with professionals in their fields. The insights gained will not only inform classroom instruction but also foster greater collaboration between local businesses and schools, supporting the ongoing development of the CCPS CTE program.
This professional development opportunity is especially significant for CTE teachers, as it allows them to experience the industries they are preparing students to enter. With plans to expand the program next year, CCPS hopes to offer even more educators the chance to deepen their understanding of industry trends and workforce expectations, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.
By reviving and expanding Educators in the Workforce, CCPS continues to prioritize creating stronger links between education and industry, ensuring that students are better prepared for the ever-evolving demands of the modern workforce.
