Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt made her way to Millbrook Magnet High School in Raleigh, where she undertook a tour of the Sustainable Agriculture Academy, casting a spotlight on the valuable role of career and technical education programs. The visit, captured in a news release from Hunt's office, showcased the Lt. Governor mingling with students, educators, and taking in the sights of the Welding and Carpentry Shop as well as the Animal Science class.
The importance of equipping students for a variety of post-secondary pathways was at the forefront of Hunt's message. "We need to ensure students have the tools to succeed on whatever path is best for them, whether its community college, a 4-year university, or going straight into their careers," she emphasized during her visit. This push for accessible CTE programs, as reported, is a key component of her Future-Ready North Carolina agenda, which aims to predominantly expand career planning and placement services throughout the state.
Dr. Brian Saunders, the principal of Millbrook Magnet High School, expressed his appreciation for the visit, highlighting the infectious enthusiasm of his teaching staff and how it translates to inspiring their students. "We were so honored, today, by Lt. Governor Hunt's visit. We deeply appreciate the opportunities we receive to show off our students and our teachers to our local and state leaders," Saunders told reporters. The Sustainable Agriculture Academy at Millbrook is pointed out for its multifaceted efforts to prepare students for their future undertakings, offering courses in horticulture, AG mechanics, and animal science among others.
Hunt's agenda manifests a recognition of the evolving labor landscape, aiming to not just to equip students with theoretical knowledge but to also offer them hands-on experience that can transmute directly into employable skills. For example, at this very institution, students have the rare opportunity to become certified welders, an invaluable asset in the competitive job market. The Lt. Governor is set to continue her campaign for these expanded CTE opportunities, striving to ensure that students across North Carolina can to readily adapt to a dynamically shifting economic milieu upon stepping out of their scholastic realms.
