probably learning how to fix implements for their fathers on the farm,” he explains. Now, middle schoolers learn the basics so high school can focus on advanced tech like AI-assisted design. “When they get to high school, we have more time and more ability to teach more of the technology that’s going to go with that,” Reiley explains,“I think adding that extra level of technology is what’s going to make those students better employees.” Dual-credit partnerships with local colleges expand opportunities, offering courses from criminal justice to floral design.“We’ve partnered with our community colleges to offer not only core academic classes that are dual credit or dual enrollment, but to offer CTE classes,” Dr. Bentzen adds. Dwayne Reiley, a career-tech instructor, ties Marion’s past to its future. “When you look at the history of our district, we’re almost 150 years old and probably the first kids that took welding in Marion,Texas were 6 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07
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