HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Representatives from Huntsville City Schools, Calhoun Community College, and Drake State Community & Technical College met today in one of the machine labs at Grissom High School to announce a new partnership which will benefit Career Technical Education (CTE) students after high school graduation.

“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,” said HCS Superintendent Christie Finley, adding that the partnership “is a win-win for all involved.”

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 Community Colleges.

Calhoun Community College President Dr. Jimmy Hodges said, “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.”

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

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.

Grissom High CTE Student Ambassador Conner Peyton spoke to the gathering about the benefits of the hands-on learning that he and other students enjoy in the CTE program at HCS. Conner concluded by saying, “On behalf of Grissom High School, the CTE program, and Huntsville City Schools, I’d like to extend my thanks to both Drake and Calhoun for the wonderful scholarship opportunities they are providing our students.”