Huntsville City Schools to partner with Calhoun, Drake State

GROW Announcement Group Shot — Huntsville City Schools, Calhoun Community College and Drake State have formed a new partnership. (Huntsville City Schools)

Solidifying a local educational bond, Huntsville City Schools has formed a partnership with Calhoun Community College and Drake State Community & Technical College that will provide multiple scholarships for HCS students.

The initiative will benefit Career Technical Education (CTE) students after high school graduation. Here’s more info:

Graduate Ready with Opportunities to Work

25488392 10155142586903730 5463250497310861415 o — Huntsville City Schools students will receive scholarships each year to Calhoun Community College and Drake State. (Calhoun Community College via Facebook)

The initiative, Graduate Ready with Opportunities to Work (GROW), provides CTE graduates with an opportunity to earn a total of twelve scholarships which will cover education and tuition costs for a year at both Calhoun and Drake State.

Each of the six HCS high schools will award one scholarship from each of the two community colleges to deserving seniors from the CTE program beginning in April of 2023, with the plan of continuing the recognition and opportunity for students annually.

“It is imperative that we continue to work together to set the community vision for meeting the needs of both our graduates and our workforce. (It is) a win-win for all involved.”
HCS Superintendent Christie Finley

A ‘game-changer’ for the work force

12716249 10153446087358100 7704515892120362192 o — Huntsville City Schools’ new partnership with Drake State can help the local work force for years to come. (Drake State via Facebook)

Leaders from all of the partners expressed excitement and optimism over the new initiative, agreeing that this can only help the local work force and community.

“This is significant not just for our community, it’s a game-changer for the work force.”
Drake State president Dr. Patricia Sims

Grissom High School CTE Student Ambassador Conner Peyton said the GROW initiative is a great opportunity for students and that the hands-on learning he and fellow students experience in the CTE program will benefit the schools as much as the scholarships will benefit the students.

The main benefit to students is the opportunity to attend college and advance.

“A lot of times there are obstacles to people attending college, and for 12 very special individuals this year, we’re going to remove that obstacle.”
Calhoun Community College president Dr. Jimmy Hodges

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