Editor-in-Chief .......... Brett Robinson
Managing Editor Kelly Watson
Associate Editors Jean Cook
Betsey Smith
Pam Stafford
Editor Allison Allsup
Designer ...................... Chris McMillen
Writers ......................... Allison Allsup
Diane L. Godwin
Tina Hughes
Nathan King
Kelly Watson
Students in Megan Kelly’s heath science class participating in a Rescue 7 helicopter landing for clinical experience.
Dear Readers,
Welcome to 2025’s fall issue of Connections magazine! Within this issue, you will find stories celebrating the success of Career and Technical Education within the state of Mississippi. As the magazine’s editor-in-chief, I am honored to have the opportunity to share stories of achievement and innovation with our CTE students, educators and industry partners.
We are excited to showcase our state’s largest CTE event of the year, the Mississippi Association for Career and Technical Education (MS ACTE) conference. A record-breaking number of attendees were present at this year’s conference, a three-day event that emphasized educator training and networking. The convention served as a platform for collaboration, innovation and knowledge-sharing, further cementing Mississippi’s commitment to advancing CTE initiatives statewide.
Along with highlighting the state conference, we are happy to include profiles on our MS ACTE state award winners, including the New Teacher of the Year Megan Kelly. As a health science instructor at Lamar County Center for Technical Education, Kelly is setting a standard for all new Mississippi CTE teachers by inspiring future healthcare workers within her class.
We also interviewed our MS ACTE Administrator of the Year, John-Grady Taylor, who leads the Tishomingo County Career and Technical Center. Taylor’s administrative approach is largely focused on facilitating a working environment where students and educators alike can thrive.
To wrap up our MS ACTE award recipients, we profile our Teacher of the Year, Clint Young. Young acts as Pontotoc Ridge’s diversified agricultural instructor as well as FFA advisor. With over 17 years in education, Young has built a program that blends traditional instruction with hands-on agricultural experiences—preparing students not only for careers, but for life.
Within this issue, we are also proud to feature Rex Buckhaults who received a Lifetime Achievement award for his unwavering commitment to Mississippi CTE over the span of his 40-year career in education. Buckhault’s influence on the field will not be forgotten in his retirement, as his legacy will continue to shape Career and Technical Education within the state.
Lastly, we are delighted to highlight the Freshman 101 program in the Vicksburg Warren School District ran by Traci Esparza, academy coach and intrapreneur. This program helps ninth graders balance practical learning with academic preparation and acts as guidance for students stepping into high school.
Join us in celebrating these stories, along with many others found in this issue of Connections! We thank you for your continued support of Mississippi’s future workforce leaders and encourage you to share these stories with your friends, colleagues and students.
Sincerely,
Brett Robinson
Associate State Superintendent Office of Career, Technical and Workforce Development Education
Tina Hughes
With the number of participants pushing the 1,500 mark this year, the annual MS ACTE Summer Conference had a record-breaking number of eager attendees. This year’s 2025 “Sailing the Seas” with CTE, held on the scenic Gulf Coast, welcomed those in attendance to a jam-packed, three-day event filled with networking and training. With a solid and focused partnership
between the Mississippi Department of Education, the MS ACTE staff and representatives from MSU’s Research and Curriculum Unit, those involved work to ensure the increasing success of making this event the largest educational conference of its kind in the state. Because of this, educators and administrators consistently return year after year, having confidence in the conference’s ability to tie industry partners to the pathways relevant to students with-
in their schools.
According to Brett Robinson, associate state superintendent, “The conference provides a critical platform for professional development, sharing best practices and highlighting innovations in CTE programming. It reinforces our collective mission of ensuring every Mississippi student has access to high-quality CTE opportunities that are relevant, rigorous and responsive to the evolving workforce landscape.”
Kicking off the three-day event was dynamic keynote speaker, Jeremy Anderson, a premier presence in the field of motivational speaking—particularly among educators. Despite obstacles to educational growth in his teenage years, he was able to rise, with the help of dedicated teachers, to achieve great strides as an author, speaker and educational consultant. When discussing the outcome of choosing Anderson as
this year’s keynote speaker, Pam Stafford, assistant director for business operations and communications with the RCU, stated that, “Jeremy Anderson’s keynote was both uplifting and impactful. He emphasized the importance of self-care so educators can show up as their best selves for their students. His message about next level teaching, combined with his passion, personal story and dedication, was inspiring.”
The inspiring words by Anderson propelled educators into several opportunities over the next few days to attend sessions for strengthening their knowledge in how to best present information to students within their classrooms. Presentations covered a vast array of topics—from those in the fields of healthcare and public service to engineering and farming. Attendees had multiple opportunities to increase
understanding in how to best relate to students across various pathways, while also being granted the chance to earn Continuing Education Units (for teachers) or Orientation to School Leaders and School Executive Management Institute credits (for administrators). Besides the valuable opportunities to increase CTE understanding and acquire credits in professional devel-
opment, the open door to network with those across the educational, industrial and technological fields proves to be a key strong point of the conference’s identity. When asked about the effectiveness of this networking, Robinson commented, “The conference serves as a unique environment where CTE educators come together to build meaningful connections. These rela-
tionships foster collaboration across districts and regions, drive innovation through shared resources and strengthen partnerships that ultimately benefit students.” Firsthand aspects of this networking are found in the industry tours around the Biloxi area. Participants were given sign-up opportunities for tours highlighting the fields of healthcare, culinary arts and public service
and safety. These tours are evidence of the valuable role CTE plays in providing communities with skilled workers across Mississippi’s workforce.
While these tours shine a light on how CTE goes hand in hand with the development of an experienced workforce, the presence of the Vendor Hall at each year’s event also emphasizes the significance of tying modern and innovative industry solutions to the work being done in schools statewide. Forty vendors and their business affiliates set up booths to interact with school representatives, allowing these reps to see the valuable contributions their products could make to educational advancement. Some of the interests highlighted by these booths were resources for support of national certification prep, software platforms for instructional and exploratory enhancement,
post-secondary schools that offer CTE degree programs and various other equipment and tools to strengthen specific pathway programs. Suzanne Kelly, executive director for MS ACTE, sees the Vendor Hall as a perk for those in attendance “as it assists CTE instructors with building resources and adding to their instructional toolkits.”
Reflecting on its quieter beginnings, as a much smaller event housed on the Mississippi State University campus in Starkville, MS, and looking forward, as both numbers and offerings continue to grow, Stafford, the conference’s organizer, celebrates how far the conference has come over the years and its continued contribution to the advancement of CTE’s purpose, presence and influence across the state. Stafford attributes the long running impact of the event to its being an open door “for educators
to network with their peers, a chance for new teachers and administrators to learn from experienced professionals and an opportunity for educators to rejuvenate before the new school year.” With ten months of planning going into making the conference a successful endeavor, plans are already in full swing to celebrate the significance of CTE on the Gulf Coast again in 2026.
JULY 13-15, 2026 • BILOXI
Students from the Moss Point Career & Technical Education (CTE) Center recently visited Mississippi Power’s Plant Daniel for an exciting and educational field trip. During the visit, students gained a closer look at how energy is produced and delivered to communities. They participated in hands-on demonstrations, explored plant operations and learned about the critical role of safety practices in the power industry. The tour also introduced them to the many career opportunities available in the energy sector—showing how CTE skills connect directly to workforce needs. This experience gave students valuable insight into the importance of reliable energy and the skilled workers who keep it running. We are grateful to Mississippi Power for hosting our students and inspiring the next generation of leaders in energy and technology. Together, opportunities like this ensure Moss Point students are career-ready and workforce-ready.
This year marks an exciting milestone for the North Pike Career and Technical Center’s agriculture program. The arrival of a brand-new greenhouse that will open doors for students to explore, experiment and grow. The addition is more than just a structure of glass and steel; it’s a living classroom that will help cultivate not only plants, but also curiosity, responsibility and career-ready skills. The career and technical center received a grant from the BlueCross BlueShield Foundation of Mississippi to purchase the new greenhouse.
From the moment the greenhouse was delivered, students have been eager to get their hands in the soil. Under the guidance of the North Pike Agriculture and Natural Resources Instructor Kimberly Bean, they’re learning how to manage climate control systems, monitor plant health and understand the science behind sustainable growing practices. The greenhouse provides an ideal setting for lessons in horticulture, plant propagation, hydroponics and integrated pest management all in real time.
For many students, this is their first opportunity to experience agriculture beyond a textbook. They are planning crop rotations, tracking germination rates and even exploring entrepreneurial projects such as growing herbs and vegetables for local markets. The hands-on learning experience connects classroom concepts to real-world applications, building confidence and problem-solving skills along the way.
“This greenhouse gives our students the chance to see the entire growing process from seed to harvest,” says
Bean. “It’s about more than growing plants, it’s about growing future agricultural leaders.”
The benefits extend beyond the school walls. The program plans to partner with local community gardens, food banks and agricultural businesses to provide students with networking opportunities and a chance to make a difference in their community. Students will also have the opportunity to explore career paths in horticulture, agronomy, greenhouse management and agricultural science.
With this new resource, the agriculture program is positioned to offer an engaging, hands-on education that fosters both technical knowledge and life skills. As the plants in the greenhouse flourish, so too will the students who care for them, cultivating a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Allison Allsup
Rex Buckhaults once said, “If we don’t tell our story, who else will?” After decades of constant devotion to his craft of sharing others’ stories, it’s now time to share his own. Honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 MS ACTE Summer Conference, Buckhaults, who felt he never worked a day in his career, has spent much of his life emphasizing the impor-
tance of sharing what’s happening in career and technical education centers. Not just in the state but across the country.
Now that he has retired after a career spanning over 40 years, he is constantly encouraging others to use their voice. After all, it was he who coined the phrase, “It’s a sorry dog that won’t bark on his own front porch!”
Buckhaults knows the impact CTE has on students and, correspondingly, on
the workforce when they finally join it. So, “when the kids do something good, it’s important to share that,” Buckhaults said. “Not only to other students and parents, but to our directors, our superintendents, the school board and anyone else who will listen.”
Buckhaults believes we need to highlight success so that others can see progress being made, so that maybe those that do will be inspired to pick up the torch and con-
Opposite page: Rex pictured at the 2025 MS ACTE conference. Top left: (L to R) Pam Stafford, Rex Buckhaults, Betsey Smith and Brett Robinson at the 2025 MS ACTE conference.Bottom left: Rex Buckhaults being recognized at the MS ACTE conference for his career achievements. Right: Buckhaults was gifted a cowbell that had been personalized with a phrase he coined.
tinue the work. Helping to share and bring awareness to a career path that is breaking boundaries both inside and outside of the classroom can only lead to more possible and positive outcomes in the future. And for Buckhaults, getting these students in places where they can be successful is what makes the world go round.
Great teachers always have a big influence on people who enter the profession. This was no different for Buckhaults, who got into agricultural education after a
particularly inspiring high school teacher. After finishing 46 years in education, with decades of teaching under his belt, serving on several boards and committees throughout the state and leading as president of MS ACTE on no less than three separate occasions, Buckhaults came full circle when he got to end his career as the director at the same school where that same teacher started it all.
Now, Buckhaults continues to influence and help others who need his guidance
just like those who came before him. Even though his time in agriculture education is technically over, with his passion and commitment to the field, he knows the work is never truly done.
“Growing up in agriculture and agriculture education, I’ve lived and breathed this for so long, it’s not something that I can just give up,” Buckhaults said. “Even in retirement, I plan to stay involved however I can, helping others who have taken my place or working towards it.”
Construction and welding students at Starkville High School’s Millsaps Career and Technical Center came together to build a mobile hunting house for the Calhoun-Webster chapter of Hope Outdoors. Hope Outdoors is a non-profit organization whose primary ministry is to assist people with physical restrictions or special needs participate in recreational outdoor activities, such as hunting.
Hope Outdoors provided the supplies necessary, which included lumber and a trailer for the house, and the students were excited to take on such a large-scale project. Benjamin Carr, the construction and carpentry instructor, told WCBI News “It was an old, rusted camper trailer. And we took it, we cut off
all the extra stuff we didn’t need, painted it and then started our floor system.” The construction and welding classes were responsible for building the floor system and framing the walls, as well as wiring
the structure to have electricity.
“Probably 60% of our hunters are in wheelchairs, and this will make us more mobile and more comfortable. We can have heat, and we can actually
run a generator. It’ll be wired for lights. It’s going to be a big help for us getting them out into the outdoors,” Robert Ray, a Fundraising Director for Hope Outdoors told WCBI News.
Allison Allsup
As a farmer who grew up the child of two educators, John-Grady Taylor knew from an early age he wanted to teach agriculture. In fact, it was his father, who was an agriculture teacher and CTE director, that influenced him to become the educator and administrator he is today. Taylor easily recalls how much his father enjoyed working with students and teaching them how to be skilled and productive citizens. It was that dedication that helped him realize his own calling to serve others through education, helping to make our world a better place.
Therefore, after graduating from Mississippi State University in 1994, Taylor began his career. Due to a lack of teaching openings in North Mississippi at that time, however, Taylor took a position as a field unit supervisor for a year before taking on the challenge of teaching at Ingomar High School in Union County. He taught for four years before having the opportunity and accepting the agriculture teacher position at Pine Grove High School in Tippah County. After teaching at Pine Grove High School for eight years, Taylor, whose father had retired from Tishomingo County Career and Technical Cen -
Taylor and family, wife Erica and daughters Claire-Mann and Cela-Cathryn, at MS Angus Awards Banquet.
ter (TCCTC) by that time, took the opportunity to follow in his footsteps, becoming the CTE director in his stead. Since then, he has been the
TCSD CTE director for 18 years now and counting.
Making strides in his career, Taylor recalls how the transition from the
classroom to administration was not always seamless. “The hardest part of the transition for me was making sure that I didn’t force ideas or changes on my faculty and instead making sure that their strengths would shine by giving them the tools and support for that to happen,” Taylor said. “That meant doing a lot of listening, being patient, working behind the scenes in the red tape and boardrooms and standing up for the teachers and students.”
While there were challenges to be sure, Taylor viewed those more as a chance to improve, to be better for the students. And while those challenges helped him focus, it was the students, the teachers, the parents and the community that constantly kept him motivated to keep going. Alongside the consistent guidance and support of the faculty and superintendent, Taylor began to form himself into the type of administrator he always wanted to be, becoming a leader who could provide the type of environment teachers and students could be successful in.
“As a leader, it is my job to take away the distractions and make sure we focus on the student as a whole,” Taylor said. “After all, I just drive the bus, it’s the students and teachers that do the hard work.”
Over the past 18 years, Taylor has accomplished many achievements at his center. From being named a certified training facility to having state and national winners in student organizations and professional organizations to name a few. One he is most proud of, though, is the fact that students who attended TCCTC have graduated at 100% for more than 10 years now. As for the future, Taylor wants to continue to improve national certification performance and in -
crease awareness of the importance of CTE around the state.
“I have been blessed to be recognized at different points in my career, and I am thankful for those opportunities,” Taylor said. “However, the memories that I cherish the most are the opportunities that I have had to watch what my students, my teachers and my school have achieved over the years.”
After almost two decades as a proven leader in his career, Taylor’s merit and commitment for this field have gained him recognition, earning him the 2025 MS ACTE Administrator of the Year award. Knowing the state of Mississippi has some amazing CTE directors, being chosen means a great deal to Taylor. “I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the best CTE directors in the nation in Mississippi, so it is truly an honor to be selected,” Taylor emphasized.
Having worked alongside Taylor for 19 years, Heather Gaylor, CTE counselor for Tishomingo County’s Career and Technical Center, can say without hesitation that he is most deserving of the MS ACTE Administrator of the Year award. “His leadership has created a school culture that feels like family, providing resources and mentorship that allow educators to thrive, while making decisive, data-driven decisions that always prioritize the best interests of the students,” Gaylor said. “By setting high, clear expectations for both staff and students, Mr. Taylor fosters an environment where collaboration, learning and achievement are the norm. His vision, dedication and heart for education have transformed our school community, and his impact on teachers and students alike is truly immeasurable.”
While it has been Taylor’s honor to
be all he can be for his school, faculty, students and community, it’s his family that’s at the center of it all. Husband to wife, Erica, and father to their two daughters, Claire-Mann and Cela-Cathryn, together they raise hay and registered angus cattle on their farm, Taylor and Son’s Farm. As a hobby, his daughters frequently exhibit those animals through FFA and 4H, and it’s been his pride and joy to see his daughters
follow in his own footsteps with their own love of agriculture.
From teaching to mentoring to raising the next generation of future agriculture learners and leaders, Taylor has most definitely seen a good majority of his goals come to fruition. Though, like any good administrator, he plans to see many more successes as he continues to lead, learn and grow for many more years to come.
Certificates: (L to R) Ronald Williams, Za’myia Wilson, Ta’niya Sims, Eric Tolliver and Eriyah Foster pictured with their certificates of completion.
Eunice Polk’s Introduction to Career Academy classes at Vicksburg High School celebrated the earning of their Certificates of Completion in Employability Soft Skills and Energy Micro-Credentials.
The Employability Soft Skills certificate, a collaboration with the National Technical Honor Society, and the Energy certificate, a partnership with Dominion Energy, were both completed through the Major Clarity platform. Dominion Energy emphasized the phrase “Action Speaks Louder” in recognition of the program’s impact.
To earn the Employability Soft Skills
Micro-Credential, students completed 19 modules covering six core competencies and 22 sub-competencies. They demonstrated mastery by achieving a score of 80% or higher on 13 knowledge checks, and scored 80% or greater on the final assessment.
The Energy Micro-Credential required students to complete 16 modules focused on 13 core competencies. Mastery was demonstrated through scores of 80% or higher on six knowledge checks, with all students achieving at least an 80% score on the final assessment.
The following students also earned
their certificates: Shanique Butler, Jayden Morris, Eduilianny Urdaneta-Contreras, King Bland, Markeia Carson, Jaleia Estenze-Irvine, Layla Johnson, Haydee Machado, Gamari’ay Parker, Angel Scott, Jaiden Thomas, Camaren Anderson, Charleston Brown, Janiya Carson, Montrell Cook, Mariae Cooper, Jordan Cruthirds, Deriyah Dixon, Isaiah Drake, JaKira Galimore, Lakira Galimorew, Lamarous Igbokwe-Martin, Malik Jackson, Anaiyah Kelly, Kamyra Kelly, Dabrielle McCauley, Joye Minor, Lorenzo Reed, Valerie Wheeler, MaKennli Ross, Kolten Thomas and James Rowell.
The Enterprise-Lincoln FFA chapter won Ram Trucks FFA “Built to Serve” TikTok contest for the service project, “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor.” In doing so, they received $10,000.
The project began in 2018, when a local teacher was in need of a bed for their foster child. The teacher reached out to the FFA chapter to see if they would be able to help, and they built the child a bed. When the local CPS department became aware, they reached out to the FFA chapter and the project “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor” was born. Since 2018, over
135 beds have been built and delivered to families in need. Students involved cite the project as having a positive impact. FFA member, Cooper Jordan said, “I never thought we could make a difference so big by building something so simple.” The recipients have ranged from students in the foster care system to families experiencing loss due to housefires and natural disasters. “We don’t like to turn anyone away,” said Mollie Goldman, FFA instructor, “If someone reaches out, we do everything we can to get them what they need.”
In addition to building the beds, the FFA chapter also provides a mattress and bedding. This ensures that the recipient has everything that they need. The chapter relies heavily on community engagement with most materials, such as the lumber, mattress and bedding, coming from donations. These donations have come from lumber and furniture stores, as well as churches and even individuals within the community. While the community’s generosity has never let them down, they are excited to have received this award so that they can use it for
Opposite page: FFA chapter members celebrating as they are presented their award for the “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor” service project. Top left: Finished beds ready to be donated to children in need. Other photos: Students working together to build the beds.
funding and potentially expanding their project. The reward money will act as a safety net so that they will not have to worry about asking for donations or be afraid they might have to turn someone down. Goldman also plans to set aside a small amount to do something in celebration of her students who have worked so hard during this project.
Diane L. Godwin
For Clint Young, a diversified agriculture instructor and FFA adviser from Pontotoc Ridge Career and Technology Center, being named the 2025 Mississippi ACTE Teacher of the Year and the 2025 Region IV ACTE Teacher of the Year still feels a little surreal. “I just was fortunate enough to be chosen,” he said with humility. “I consider it pretty much a little bit of luck, I guess.”
But colleagues, students and community partners would argue luck has little to do with it. Over his 17 years in education, Young has built a program that blends traditional instruction with hands-on agricultural experiences—preparing students not only for careers, but for life.
A Nontraditional Path to the Classroom
Young didn’t follow the standard path to teaching. With a degree in animal and dairy science from Mississippi State University, he first worked with the Mississippi State Extension Service and at the Lee County Ag Center. The decision to enter the classroom was influenced by both opportunity, family and a desire to share agriculture knowledge.
“My wife was a school administrator, and the best way to have your family life matchup is if you have a similar ca-
Pontotoc Ridge Career and Technology Center Diversified Agriculture Instructor Clint Young, 2025 Teacher of the Year
reer,” Young explained. “You have a lot of the same holidays. And I still got to stay in diversified agriculture, which has always been my interest.”
That interest turned into a passion for teaching. Unlike his extension work— where knowledge-sharing was limited to meetings and workshops—teaching allowed him to engage with students for hours each day. “I’ve probably been able to share more knowledge with students in the classroom,” he reflected.
Learning Beyond the Desk
Young’s approach to education is
rooted in real-world application. His students don’t just learn from textbooks or lectures; they build fences, care for animals and practice skills like delivering medicines or measuring vital signs.
“Students aren’t just in a classroom with their knees under a desk or table, everybody facing one direction,” he said. “We can blend what we do in the classroom and then repeat it with our hands, using our minds and asking questions. Even the students with the most self-doubt will eventually have their turn at being able to perform a task. And it always feels good to accom-
plish something and have someone pat you on the back.”
Those accomplishments, Young believes, build both confidence and critical soft skills. “Communication, leadership, making connections, networking—these are just as important as learning how to shear sheep or trim hooves,” he said.
That belief in giving students opportunities has left a lasting impact on many, including Shannon Wilson, one of Young’s former students and now a senior in animal and dairy science at Mississippi State University.
“My senior year he took me to our state FFA conference, and from there I learned what a state officer was,” Wilson recalled. “I was hooked, and even though I would have to do extra work in college to still be able to run for that organization, he helped me get a hold of those extra resources and put me in contact with people who were able to push me further. That gave me the opportunity to run for state office—and not only run but serve as FFA state secretary.”
She credits Young’s patience and encouragement for giving her the confidence to grow. “He’s one of those teachers who, if you mention just once, ‘Hey, I’d like to do this,’ he’s going to give you the opportunity to do it,” Wilson said.
Much of the success of Young’s program comes from his ability to connect with the community, local businesses and fellow educators. With support from grants, fundraising and in-kind donations, his students benefit from resources like a portable ultrasound machine, livestock facilities and even a small teaching farm right on campus.
“People in the community are always surprised when they come to visit and we can show them a barn, a pasture and small farm animals,” Young said. “It’s a good way to build your program when everybody has a buy-in.”
That collaborative spirit doesn’t go unnoticed. Patricia Ellison, director of the Pontotoc Ridge Career and Technology Center, shared, “Clint Young has been a constant source of encouragement in my role as a CTE director. His support and willingness to step in and help around the building wherever needed reflects his dedication to both our staff and students. His teamwork and positive attitude make a true difference in our daily work.”
That same spirit extends beyond his own building as well. Young mentors new CTE teachers, helping them navigate challenges like funding and program development. “We don’t want them to come in and after a year be so frustrated that they’re looking to do something else,” he said. “It’s about giving them support and showing we’re available to help.”
Despite his recent honors, Young remains modest, saying “I’ve always been my own worst critic. But when I was named ACTE Teacher of the Year at the state and regional level, I was ecstatic.”
For him, the truest measure of success comes not from plaques or titles, but from his students’ growth and feedback. “Some of the best things that gauge a teacher’s success is to talk to students and get their feedback,” he said. “For me that’s a good measure of what you’re doing.”
As he looks ahead, Young is focused not on personal recognition but on cultivating the next generation—help-
(L to R) Pontotoc Ridge Career and Technology Center Diversified Agriculture students Noah Gregory, Lanon Russell, Brody Howell, Will Speck, Kiki Cornejo, Niya George, Jonathan Wells, Easton Hill help Diversified AG Instructor, Clint Young attach a gate for a small animal holding pen.
ing students discover their strengths, pursue their passions and stay connected to agriculture in whatever form that takes. Whether they become
farmers, veterinarians or community leaders with a small herd of cattle on the side, Young sees each as a success story worth celebrating.
Forrest County Agricultural High School CTE classes recognize the value of collaboration to enhance learning experiences for students involved. For this reason, when the Law & Public
Safety (LPS) instructor invited Staff Sgt. Christopher Smith, of the United States Army, to lead PT for the LPS II class the Health Science instructor saw a unique opportunity. Throughout the PT session, Health Science II students utilized their skills checking vital signs of the LPS II students. Students commented afterward that the activity was a positive and hands-on learning experience.
Tupelo Career and Technical Center’s Law and Public Safety Instructor Bailey Berryman gave his students real-world experience by facilitating a hypothetical investigation that allowed his students to work together to solve a crime. Students were taught important practices of collecting and photographing evidence, as well as dusting for fingerprints. Students enjoyed the opportunity to get hands-on experience while working collaboratively.
Nathan King
Encouraging clinical professionalism, impacting the community and inspiring compassion illustrates the efforts of Megan Kelly, health care and clinical services teacher at the Lamar County Center for Technical Education (LCCTE) in her hometown of Purvis, Mississippi. This summer, Megan Kelly was awarded the title of 2025 Mississippi ACTE New Teacher of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes her bold efforts to preserve a highly successful health care and clinical services high school program, setting a standard for all new Mississippi career and technical education (CTE) teachers. Megan Kelly confirmed that “as a registered nurse and now a health science instructor, being nominated and receiving this award is truly an honor and deeply humbling.” She noted that transitioning from clinical practice in healthcare since 2012, serving as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and now a bachelor’s-prepared registered nurse (BSN, RN) to the classroom has been one of the most rewarding journeys of her career. “I’ve always believed in the power of education to transform lives,” Megan Kelly stated. “Now, I can inspire future healthcare professionals every day. This award
affirms the passion and purpose that I bring into my teaching. It’s not just a personal achievement, it reflects the dedication of my students, the support of my colleagues and the strong foundation that nursing has given me.”
Suzanne Kelly, her LCCTE director, was asked to describe how Megan Kelly’s impactful health care and clinical services course propels her students toward future career success. She shared how Megan Kelly’s health science students not only sponsor blood drives and assist elementary school students with proper hand-washing techniques, but they also design playful exercises and activities for nursing home residents to develop their gross and fine motor skills. Additionally, to cultivate classroom experiences, Megan Kelly hosts mock interviews with guest speakers, including medical professionals and her former students. This prepares her current students as they gain the skills necessary for entry-level medical employment. “Megan Kelly works hard to ensure that students understand the importance of giving back to their communities,” Suzanne Kelly expressed. “She prepares her students for college and entry-level medical careers by providing impactful experiences, and their success is a true testament to her dedication to their future.” According to her director, Megan Kelly’s efforts attracted more than 80 HOSA annual dinner attendees, with multiple businesses donating to support the event.
When asked who her greatest influence and teaching inspiration was, Megan Kelly put forth her mother and her own high school health sciences teacher, Mary Taylor. “No matter the circumstances, my mother’s unwavering kindness and incredible work ethic shaped the person that I am today,” Megan Kel-
ly explained. “Furthermore, Mrs. Taylor saw potential in me before I truly saw it in myself, and she consistently pushed me to aim higher.” This encouragement and support guided Kelly’s acceptance into the dual enrollment licensed practical nurse (LPN) program during her senior year of high school, a decision that changed the course of her life. Because of this support, Kelly was able to graduate from high school in May 2012, complete nursing school by December 2012 and begin working full time as a nurse at the age of 19. Taylor’s inspiration didn’t stop there, though, as she also encouraged Kelly to complete the certified nursing assistant (CNA) program while still in LPN school, which allowed her to start working in healthcare at 18. “Mrs. Taylor’s belief in me planted the seed that eventually led to
my becoming an educator,” Megan Kelly emphasized. “I walked through the same doors and sat in the same chairs my students now fill. It’s been a full-cir-
“Megan Kelly works hard to ensure that students understand
the
importance
of giving back to their communities.
She
prepares her students for college and entrylevel medical careers by providing impactful experiences, and their success is a true testament to her dedication to their future.”
- Suzanne Kelly, Lamar County Center for Technical Education director
cle moment in my life.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone new to the teaching profession, Megan Kelly suggested focusing on building real, meaningful re-
lationships with the students. “Teaching the course content is important, but making a connection with your students is what truly opens the door to learning,” Megan Kelly declared. “Simply be present for each student by listening, encouraging and showing up consistently as someone who believes in them.”
Her current health science student, Brooxie Shepherd, acknowledged that, “Mrs. Kelly makes learning health science enjoyable and exciting every day. We appreciate her class and have so much fun learning about the body, general health and so many other aspects of medical care.” Cora Rayborn, another of Megan Kelly’s current students agreed with Shepherd, going on to further recognize her important work ethic as well. “Mrs. Kelly helps in any way that it takes for us to
Lamar County CTE hosted a Rescue 7 helicopter landing for clinical experience.
succeed, allowing us to learn so much about ourselves, our futures and the world around us,” Rayborn asserted. “I will strive to enter every room with the same positivity that Mrs. Kelly has shown us each day, remembering the importance of a positive work ethic and the ‘why’ of doing this work.”
Megan Kelly’s former student, Brennen Lee, recalled, “while attending Mrs. Kelly’s class, not only did I find my future, but I also found my sense of purpose.” Lee goes on to mention how Kelly thoughtfully planned and curated each lesson, helping her students to complete her class with determination and confidence. Going further, Lee believes her lessons involving patient care were the most impactful. “She did not sugarcoat patients’ needs during clini-
cals,” Lee stated. “There was real pain, there were real illnesses and real problems. Mrs. Kelly presented them to us with grace, and we saw her compassion for these patients.”
With her students inspiring her every day, Megan Kelly strives to stay current and provide the most relevant education possible. To do this, she continues to work as a registered nurse on weekends and holidays, believing students can benefit from her health care and clinical services field experience. Teaching health science lets her apply this knowledge, allowing her to share her passion for healthcare with students who are eager to begin their own journey. Knowing she started right where they are now, in a health science classroom, Kelly is honored to help her students
take their first steps on that same path. Even during the challenging times, she recognizes “why” she chose to pursue both nursing and teaching. Not only does she want to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, “helping to shape the next generation of healthcare workers” keeps her focused and driven. As a teacher, she takes pride in seeing her students developing essential career skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork and professionalism, skills that will serve them no matter where their careers lead them. When it’s all said and done, Megan Kelly’s greatest hope for her students is that they “step into their communities as compassionate, skilled and confident healthcare professionals truly making a difference in others’ lives.”
Sometimes the most important solutions in meeting specific needs posed by students today are simply an acute awareness of those needs—and the willingness to address those needs with a bit of creativity. Adhering to this idea is what Traci Esparza, academy coach and intrapreneur in the Vicksburg Warren School District (VWSD), believes has led to the successful development of Freshman 101, a program which helps ninth graders balance practical learning with academic preparation. As principals took note of the need freshmen often have for a little extra guidance when stepping into high school, the VWSD and the Vicksburg Warren College and Career Academies initially established something called the Freshmen Academy. This eventually grew into a more defined program entitled Freshman 101, a course that intentionally grants students early exposure to practical life skills and works to strengthen their development in
Students at Vicksburg High School get a demonstration from the VWSD Transportation Department about how to check fluids in a vehicle.
social-emotional learning. In its inaugural year for the district, both Warren Central High School, with coach Cory Wison, and Vicksburg High School, with Eunice Polk and Deborah Brown, are offering this practical curriculum. The curriculum addresses three significant areas for Vicksburg students: social skills, self-care and self-management. Polk says growth can already be seen in specific areas. “Our
students have demonstrated improved self-awareness, communication and time management skills, while also showing greater confidence in decision-making and problem-solving,” she states. Noticeably, the honing of such skills lays a stronger foundation for these youth to launch into thriving careers. James Mattox Williams, a freshman at Warren Central High School agrees, stating, “I’ve learned a lot in
this course under coach Wilson, and it’s exciting to see how much progress I’ve made. It really gives me confidence to keep pushing forward.”
Let’s look at the three valuable components of Freshman 101, beginning with the social skills aspect. Recognizing the value of healthy communication drives the selection of activities and guest speakers for this component. Representatives from Open Up Mississippi visited the classroom to facilitate discussions and role-play exercises to foster such tools as conflict resolution and teamwork. These ideas expanded into actual hands-on opportunities to work together in problem solving— specifically in learning to check fluids
in a car and even change a tire. In doing so, students were able to interact with key staff from the VWSD’s Transportation Department—a win-win in establishing meaningful networks.
Taking the development of social skills a step further, freshmen are connected with mentors, also called Academy Ambassadors, within the student body. Not only are the participants of Freshman 101 introduced to community and business leaders, students in grades 10-12 are partnered with these participants to help advise and encourage them on their journey to graduation. Events for these student groups so far have focused on topics such as understanding the concept of GPAs
and learning to navigate through the various stages of high school by directly reaching out to the senior class in an “Ask a Senior Anything!” format. This fosters a greater sense of community within the school itself.
Polk points out the importance of the self-care sessions, which helps teach students to care for themselves daily outside the classroom. Being attentive to sufficient sleep, nutritious eating, consistent exercise and well-managed stress plays a big role in helping freshmen establish healthy routines for their high-school careers. Community partners and volunteers from the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) also took time to visit with the students and
stress the importance of reaching out for support if needed.
The third aspect of this valuable curriculum directs attention to self-management. Because today’s students carry many responsibilities, from sports and club activities to family and part-time job commitments, participants are challenged to set goals in managing time and setting realistic boundaries with that time. A major component of this focus area lies with encouraging students to use calendars and planners—practical ways to instill self-discipline. Esparza believes repeated application of organizational skills is essential, sharing, “the more often students encounter these real-world lessons, the more likely they are to absorb and apply them.”
VWSD can claim a win for integration by tying Freshman 101 to other pathways within the system. For instance, students can expect to hear from those within the health and human services pathways on topics such as the importance of car insurance and the correct procedures to follow in the event of an auto accident.
Other life skills encourage freshmen to practice scheduling doctors’ appointments and filling prescriptions. Plans are also on track to introduce financial basics, like balancing a checkbook and paying bills. With pertinent topics being presented at a critical time of maturity for these teens, it is easy to see why participants are expressing strong feelings of accomplishment after completing sections of this curriculum. Lauren Young, freshman at Vicksburg High School states, “I’ve learned so much from the guest speakers my teacher, Ms. Polk, had in our Freshman 101 sections. The representatives from Open Up Mississippi shared valuable insight on social skills, self-care and self-management.”
As to how these educators acquired
Student learning and applying how to change a tire.
such a valuable teaching opportunity. Well, Esparza fully believes “having supportive administrators at both schools, instructors who are open to change and an innovative team of academy coaches has made all the difference.” A willingness to expose students to real life skills not often found in traditional coursework opens doors for sustainable growth. This growth then extends into the local community, through a devotion within the school system to develop healthy relationships with area business partners. As
local businesses share workforce needs with the VWSD, the district can respond by preparing high schoolers with the confidence to meet those needs. Esparza sees this as a wonderful way to successfully pour into the community’s growth. Through the implementation of the Freshman 101 curriculum, Polk reaffirms that Vicksburg schools “connect students with community partners to learn skills that will serve them in high school and in life.” A win-win in the student and workforce partnership game.
Juniors and seniors enrolled in the Health Science program at the Lowndes County School District’s Career & Technical Center were given the opportunity to tour East Mississippi
Community College’s (EMCC) Golden Triangle campus. The students visited classrooms during a tour of the facilities and spoke with instructors, including those in the Division of Nursing and Health Sciences. The trip allowed students to get a feel of what attending EMCC for Nursing or Health Science is like and gave them a chance to envision a potential educational path.
