Civil Municipal Magazine - Dec 2023

320 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 12 University as well, connecting with those who are enrolled in their robust teaching program. “We are way past the time where the applicant pool was just full, and you would have your pick of several people in a pool. So, we developed those pipelines, and they have worked very well for us,” Anderson remarks. Moving Forward As part of the fastest growing county in Virginia, the district continues to work with entities such as the New Kent Chamber of Commerce, building on internships and work based learning opportunities in the community. “The Chamber is critical,” admits Nichols. “When I talk about knowing what the market is demanding, and what’s out there, we really rely on the chamber for that.” With companies like Advance Auto Parts locating and bringing jobs to the area, he stresses, “We want our kids to have the skills and abilities to be able to walk right into those types of jobs as well. That whole manufacturing side is one of our next steps into providing a career pathway for kids.” While New Kent County Schools grow, safety remains an important priority. “We have a very strong partnership with the New Kent sheriff’s department and New Kent Fire & Rescue, and every day, we are making sure that we have that strong communication line between those entities,” highlights Dr. Nichols. “It’s hard to get smart when you don’t feel safe. So, safety is the number one thing that we do.” Looking to the future, a new strategic plan is underway for the district, which Nichols underscores will reflect the voice of the community, students and staff. As a final thought, he imparts, “I’m incredibly excited about the future here. It’s really an honor and a privilege to be able to do this work and connect the way we do.” PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Frontline Education www.frontlineeducation.com