By Daily Courier

Published: Saturday, February 11, 2012

Connellsville Area Career and Technical Center is a gem in the Connellsville Area School District.

The school -- formerly known as "the vo-tech" -- has a multitude of programs offered to students who are thinking about careers that may or may not lead them to college.

Students attending CACTC may select technical programs, including auto collision repair, auto mechanics, carpentry, computer networking, cosmetology, culinary arts, electrical occupations, electronics, marketing, masonry, protective services or welding.

At CACTC, students also take required core classes -- English, gym/health, history, math and science -- right at the school.

The school also is preparing for a new program -- offering adult classes.

In an era when trade skills are needed, schools like CACTC offer students a head start. Courses can put them on a fast-track for employment.

The school recently underwent a major renovation project. Its shops have been renovated.

And the school wants to show off these improvements as well as inform the public of what it has to offer.

An informational open house is scheduled Feb. 15.

The event begins at 5 p.m. with representatives of the Institute for High Priority Occupations discussing the needs and impact of the local gas and oil industry. The open house follows at 6 p.m., when students and teachers will showcase the 14 programs and academic courses.

What a great opportunity. The public should take this chance to visit the school. See the changes and see what this school in the Connellsville Area School District has to offer our youth: a chance at success.

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