2024-25 CTE-Perkins Office Hours

Will Resume August 21st

Every Wednesday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm

Montana Middle School Student Wins Silver Medal from National SkillsUSA!!

July -- Virgil Tholt, 14, of Winnett, Montana received Silver in the SkillsUSA Championships in Middle School Extemporaneous Speaking. The national skilled trades championships, held in Atlanta took place on June 25-28, 2024. The annual SkillsUSA conference was a showcase of career and technical education where more than 6,000 outstanding career and technical education students -- all state contest winners -- competed hands-on in 110 different trade, technical, and leadership fields. SkillsUSA is America's proud champion of the skilled trades. We're a diverse, student-led organization building the future skilled workforce with graduates who are career ready, day one.

Virgil is an 8th grader at Winnett Public Schools. "We are very proud of Virgil's accomplishments," said Adam Tholt, his SkillsUSA advisor. "By showing their dedication to excellence in occupational and leadership skills, Virgil and the other students who participated in the SkillsUSA competition are true 'champions at work.'"

During the SkillsUSA competition, the students worked against the clock and each other, proving their expertise in occupations such as robotics, computer-aided drafting, criminal justice, heavy equipment operator, and culinary arts. All contests are run with the help of industry, trade associations, and labor organizations, testing competencies set by industry for entry-level workers in their field. 

In addition, leadership contestants demonstrated public speaking, job interviews, conducting meetings by parliamentary procedure, and speed-round knowledge quiz bowls.

A total of 1,250 gold, silver, and bronze medals were presented to students on Friday night, June 28 at the SkillsUSA Awards Session at State Farm Arena. Many winners also received industry prizes, tools of their trade, or scholarships. 

The medalists and contestants who met a threshold contest score for their event as an indicator of proficiency also received a Skill Point Certificate representing workplace readiness in the student's occupational specialty. Students can add the certificate to an employment portfolio. [Note: for a description of a particular contest, go to www.skillsusa.org/competitions/skillsusa-championships/contest-descriptions/ [skillsusa.org].] 

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is America's proud champion of the skilled trades. It's a student-led partnership of education and industry that's building the skilled workforce our nation depends on with graduates who are career ready, day one. Representing nearly 380,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools, and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. SkillsUSA's mission empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.

That mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills, and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into the classroom curriculum. Through Framework instruction, students develop the character-shaping leadership skills -- teamwork, communication, professionalism, and more -- that successful careers and lives demand. At the same time, students hone their high-level technical skills against current industry standards in more than 130 skilled trade areas, from 3-D Animation to Welding. The result? Focused, confident, and highly skilled graduates who are ready to work, ready to lead, and ready to make a difference in our schools, workplaces, and communities.

A vital solution to the skills gap, where more in-demand skilled trades positions are available than qualified professionals to fill them, SkillsUSA has served over 14 million difference-making members since 1965. To learn more, visit www.skillsusa.org [skillsusa.org].

This year the National TSA Conference was held at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, FL on June 26 - 30, 2024. This year we offered to help any affiliated chapter attend the conference during our state leadership conference. We would assist with all expenses and make arrangements for anyone wanting to attend. One of the main goals of Montana TSA in the upcoming years is to have a larger Montana presence at the National TSA Conference. By offering support from Montana TSA for chapters to attend it is our hope that we will have more schools taking advantage of this great opportunity. 

During the advisor meeting at the State TSA Conference this spring, Advisors stated that they appreciated the opportunity to attend but they all passed for this years National Conference. The challenge of hosting a national conference at the end of June. It encourages advisors and schools to take the time to bring students to compete on the national stage.  Knowing that I as the State Advisor would be attending the conference. I invited 3 students from Ronan High School to attend and compete.

The students were registered for architectural design, promotional design, and flight endurance. No students placed in the top 10. Though they did not place in the top 10 students had meaningful learning opportunities and made quality connections throughout the conference.

This year we also had the pleasure of having Kaitlin Trutzel, our OPI specialist, attend the conference with us. As our cooperate member of Montana TSA. It was great having her there with us, she also helped at the national conference by volunteering to judge events.

As part of the National Technology Student Association conference experience, we were lucky to have an opportunity to attend the Kennedy Space Center and see a live launch of a weather satellite. We also toured the facility to learn more about the history of space and the importance of technology and engineering. Kennedy Space Center, one of 10 NASA field centers, is a premier multiuser spaceport with more than 90 private-sector partners and nearly 250 partnership agreements. The presence of commercial companies at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is larger than ever before, enabling us to embark on a new era of space exploration.

Although Kennedy is the agency’s main launch site, the center also is home to facilities that research and develop innovative solutions that government and commercial space ventures need for working and living on the surfaces of the Moon and other bodies in our solar system.

About TSA

The Technology Student Association (TSA) is a national, non-profit career and technical student organization (CTSO) of middle school and high school students engaged in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Since TSA was chartered in 1978, over 5,000,000 student members have participated through competitions, intracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, community service, and more. 

Membership: By the Numbers 300,000+ middle and high school student members 100 percent likely to graduate from high school 75 percent college-bound 39 percent minority representation 3,500+ teachers (chapter advisors) 2,300+ schools in 48 states For more information visit TSA Nationals Website Montana TSA Website

2024 FCCLA National Leadership Conference

The 2024 FCCLA National Leadership Conference (NLC) took place in Seattle, WA, from June 29 – July 3, drawing more than 8,000 students, educators, and guests from across the nation. 

This gathering provided a valuable platform for attendees to expand their leadership skills, sharpen their talents, explore career pathways, and hear from inspiring speakers. Montana FCCLA was well represented, with 122 members, advisers, and guests in attendance.   Competitive event opportunities this year included Skill Demonstration Events, Challenge Tests, and Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Event competitions.

Over 4,300 FCCLA members competed in these events, where they were recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation.

Students develop real-world skills and gain valuable insights by participating in this programming at the state and national levels. STAR Events support student development by enhancing their classroom experience in their Family and Consumer Sciences classroom and guiding them toward successful career pathways.

With more than 30 events to choose from, participants had the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities by actively addressing essential issues concerning families, careers, or communities.

By researching the topic and implementing projects to advocate for positive change, students acquired valuable skills and industry insights needed to thrive in the 21st century.

Montana competitive event results included three first place awards, two third place awards, 17 gold medals, 49 silver medals, and 9 bronze medals, with 18% of our STAR Events entries placing in the top ten. 

Earning the title of national winners were Aiden Kramer, Ennis, in the Consumer Math Challenge Urika Delica, Conrad, in FCCLA Creed Speaking and Interpretation, and Lexie Wichman, Moore, in the Public Policy Advocate event. Placing third in the nation were Isabel Hunter, Powell County, in the Culinary Math Challenge, and Madelyn Myers, North Star, in the Food Innovations event.  Placing eighth was Sadie Dell, Three Forks, in the Pastry Arts Technical Decorating Skill event.

Advisers were also recognized for their accomplishments. Mandy Eike, Moore, received the Spirit of Advising award for Montana, and Bethany Ringer, Gallatin, was recognized for completing the Level Two Adviser Academy.  Congratulations to all for representing Montana FCCLA in such a positive and professional manner! Attendees experienced dynamic workshops and engaging speakers while at the conference, and also enjoyed exploring Seattle, including a Montana FCCLA Harbor Cruise.

The 2025 National Leadership Conference is planned for Orlando, Florida in July.

Photos attached include:

Aiden Kramer, first place, Consumer Math Challenge Urika Delica, first place, FCCLA Creed Speaking & Interpretation Lexie Wichman, first place, Public Policy Advocate Isabel Hunter, third place, Culinary Math Challenge Madelyn Myers, North Star, Food Innovations  Mandy Eike, Moore, Spirit of Advising Bethany Ringer, Gallatin, Adviser Academy Level Two

Additional photos are of FCCLA members checking out the conference, as well as the Montana FCCLA delegation in Seattle.

Three Forks Career and Technical Education Department Receives Grant to Install Raised Garden Beds

Three Forks, MT – The Three Forks Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department is thrilled to announce the installation of raised garden beds in the courtyard area between the elementary school and the new flex space. This initiative, aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and community engagement, has been made possible by a generous grant from the Montana Farmers Union Foundation. Additionally, the project has received support through a Rural Reserve Grant and Carl Perkins funding.

The new garden area will serve as a versatile learning space for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. It will be integrated into science classes, culinary arts programs, and agriculture education, providing hands-on experiences that enrich the standard curriculum. These outdoor classrooms will foster a deeper understanding of natural sciences, sustainability, and food production.

As part of an ongoing effort to develop extended learning environments, the Three Forks CTE Department has focused on utilizing courtyard areas created by recent construction. The gardens will not only serve as educational spaces but also as social areas for both students and the community.

The construction and maintenance of these gardens are designed as practical learning opportunities for students across all grade levels. This hands-on approach ensures that students gain valuable skills in gardening, project management, and community service.

“We are excited to share our project with the community and look forward to making a difference in the lives of our students,” said Cathe Felz, Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher. “These new spaces will provide unique learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom and help students develop important life skills.”

The Three Forks CTE Department extends its gratitude to the Montana Farmers Union Foundation, the Rural Reserve Grant, and Carl Perkins funding for their invaluable support.

The community's enthusiasm and involvement are crucial as we move forward with this project, which promises to benefit students and residents alike. For more information about the project or how to get involved, please contact:

Cathe Felz at cfelz@threeforks.k12.mt.us.

Or Jessica Oehmcke joehmcke@threeforks.k12.mt.us .

About Three Forks Career and Technical Education Department
The Three Forks CTE Department is dedicated to providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for future careers and life skills. Through innovative projects and community partnerships, the department aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster a love for lifelong learning. Teachers involved in the project are Ian Schlif, Tyler Noyse, Jessica Oehmcke, and Cathe Felz.

Montana Perkins Secondary Reserve Grant

Purpose: To create career awareness, and recruit and retain students within a CTE Secondary Program of Study that leads to high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand occupations.  The most offered middle school CTE course is in career exploration. Montana does provide Perkins’s funding for middle school CTE programs directly although districts can use their funding to support it.

The Perkins Secondary Reserve Grant will be to encourage pathway work for the middle grades.

Montana CTE & CTSO Packet

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is helping our nation address key challenges such as workforce development, student achievement, economic vitality, and global competitiveness. Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are key components of strong CTE programs. CTSOs integrate into CTE programs and courses and extend teaching and learning through innovative programs, business and community partnerships, and leadership experiences at the school, state, and national levels.

• CTSOs provide relevant, engaging programs that improve student achievement, reduce dropout rates, and help students discover the wide range of career options available.
• CTSOs engage the community and local businesses to help students understand global competition and chart effective and efficient pathways through high school and postsecondary education for their personal success.
• CTSO programs, such as industry-based competitive events and community service, provide students with the opportunity to develop 21st Century Skills focused on creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and goal setting.
• CTSOs bring relevance to the classroom and prepare students to be college and career-ready.

The impact that CTSOs make in our state is quite astonishing. We invite you to review this publication to see how Career and Technical Student Organizations are contributing to learning that works in our state.

Montana Advanced Opportunity Act

expands personalized career & technical education opportunities for middle and high school students; reduces out-of-pocket costs for students and families in support of a student's post-secondary success; empowers students to actively engage in forming post-secondary success that aligns with their individual interests, passions, strengths, needs, and culture; and

• authorizes elected school boards to use advanced opportunity aid to invest in Montana students by supporting individualized pathways for career and post-secondary. 

The submission window for FY 2026 new applications and annual reports will open Monday, December 2, 2024, at 8 am.

For questions, please contact:

OPI CTE Unit General Questions

Shannon Boswell, Career Technical and Adult Education Director

Eric Tilleman, Agriculture Education Specialist

Jamie Corley, Health Sciences Education Specialist 

Kaitlin Trutzel, Industrial Technology Education Specialist 

Vacant, Business Education Specialist 

Gayla Randel, Family & Consumer Sciences Education Specialist

The OPI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, require an alternate format, or have questions concerning accessibility, contact the OPI ADA Coordinator, 406-444-3161, opiada@mt.gov, Relay Service: 711.