certified training.Dr.Atha notes that such partnerships often include paid work-study opportunities. “Our students participate in internships with Riverview Health and the Westfield Fire Department. Such experiences allow them to earn certifications in healthcare or fire and rescue before graduation.” He notes that connections support the local economy. “We partner with local businesses to place students in real positions.They gain experience, helping them decide their post-secondary path,” Dr. Atha says. EXPANDING FOR UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH Westfield currently implements approximately $500 million in capital improvements to address its status as a top national growth destination. The district operates under the Destination Westfield plan, which recently received Phase 3 approval for longterm expansion.“We are one of the fastest-growing districts in the country, and our infrastructure must keep pace with that reality. This requires significant capital investment to ensure our facilities remain state-of-the-art,” Dr. Atha says. He points to the 222 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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