AI is here to stay,” says Marotta. “Our job is to teach students to use it responsibly and critically.” The district’s technology supervisors are currently developing policy guidelines after attending conferences and collaborating with other districts nationwide. “We’re learning how AI can strengthen the curriculum rather than replace it,” Antkowiak notes. “The goal is to prepare students for a world where technology will be central to every profession.” CAREER AND TECHNICAL PATHWAYS Haverhill’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs have become a cornerstone of its high school experience. From graphic design to teacher training, health sciences, and biomedical engineering, students are discovering real-world applications for their studies. The district’s healthcare pathway, for example, enables students to earn Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials while still in school.“Every student who wanted a job got one,” Marotta says. “The demand for CNAs in our area is enormous.” Through internships with local organizations like Bethany Homes, Community Action, and HP3— Haverhill’s Public-Private Partnership, students gain both professional experience and mentorship. HP3’s director, Allison Harquest, matches students with mentors, arranges workplace visits, and uses virtual reality goggles to simulate trades such as welding or plumbing. “It’s about showing kids what’s possible,” Connolly explains. “If they can see it, they can plan for it.” OPENUPRESOURCES.ORG AVAILABLE IN PRINT & DIGITAL Open Up Resources is a non-profit publisher in pursuit of delivering the highest-quality learning experiences for all students by providing educators with research-based PreK-12 curricula and professional learning to support every student’s academic success and create in-class experiences that celebrate, honor, and empower. K–12 ELA & Math Curricula, Professional Learning & Community 264 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12
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