The center’s project materials identify undersized classrooms and outdated electrical and mechanical systems as constraints at its existing facility.
The levy for a new building returned to the ballot after a May 2024 state funding extension and a revision to the ballot language, according to Springfield-Clark Career Technology Center.
The CTC's 2024 materials put the cost at about $49 a year for a home appraised at $100,000.
The Proposed Project and Its Funding
The center’s project materials put the proposed project at $90 million, including $38.7 million from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.
How State Funding Works
Ohio launched a $200 million Career Technical Construction Program in 2023 to help eligible vocational school districts build or expand career-tech facilities, according to the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.
The center’s project materials say it turned away nearly 200 students for the 2024–2025 school year.
In January 2025, Moody's Ratings assigned an underlying Aa2 rating and an enhanced Aa1 rating to the center's $59 million bond issuance, clearing the way for a public bond sale to local investors that February. The enhanced rating came through the district's participation in Ohio's School District Credit Enhancement program, the center's funding page states.
Planning for a New Facility
Superintendent Michelle Patrick has discussed the proposed building and workforce needs.
Vice President Matthew Mills called the groundbreaking a new chapter in the center's commitment to students, families, employers and communities, adding that the new facility represents an investment in people and future careers. Springfield Mayor Rob Rue said the building will provide more classroom and lab space, modern equipment and more opportunities for young people in the region.
Clark County Commission President Sasha Rittenhouse, joined by Commissioners Charles Patterson and Greg Kaffenbarger, presented the center with a proclamation marking the occasion. Students themselves helped unveil the new branding: sophomore Raygan Rogers introduced the center's compass symbol, meant to guide students' paths, while fellow Jaguar Academy sophomore Dawson Leonard introduced the new blue and orange color scheme, with blue symbolizing trust, stability and professionalism, and orange representing energy, creativity and optimism.
Inside the New Building
The new school will house 26 career-tech programs, 27 general classrooms, and four science labs, according to the News-Sun. It will also include a student commons for dining, assemblies and gatherings, along with additional parking and separate entrances and exits for parents, student drivers and buses.
Construction is set to begin this fall, with the new facility planned for completion by winter 2028. Once finished, the center plans a ribbon-cutting ceremony, after which the existing campus is scheduled for demolition in spring or summer 2029. The MVCDC Head Start building, the board office and some outbuildings will remain on the property.
Student Earnings
The center reported that 131 students earned more than $1.2 million in 2023–2024.
In September 2026, the center earned its third consecutive overall 5-star rating on the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce's Career-Technical Planning District report card, a rating meant to reflect performance significantly exceeding state standards.
The career center serves high school students. It offers hands-on career-technical training and academic instruction meant to prepare students for either direct workforce entry or higher education.
Since 2023, the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission has approved grants for 35 joint vocational districts through a program to help eligible districts build or expand career-tech facilities.
