Civil Municipal - May 2024

extends to specialized pathways in engineering and biomedicine, areas where Greenfield-Central offers unique opportunities not readily available at neighboring schools.“We have wonderful teachers in those programs, which are very popular,” Cary notes. The success of these pathways places the district as a leader in STEM education, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to explore and excel in these critical fields. Beyond STEM, Greenfield-Central is proactive in offering students opportunities for dual enrollment, cooperative education experiences, and the chance to earn credits toward an associate degree. “I think we’re ahead of the game,” Cary remarks, pointing to the district’s forward-thinking approach to preparing students for their future careers. Establishing a career center in Hancock County is a testament to this, promising even more opportunities for hands- on learning and community engagement. Cary is particularly proud of the AP and dual credit classes available to students. “We’re always looking to expand those and give our students the most chances,” he explains, illustrating the dynamic and responsive nature of the curriculum to student needs and aspirations. The recent addition of a German teacher and expanding world language offerings further exemplify the school’s efforts to broaden students’ horizons and prepare them for a globalized world. Dr. Olin, with evident pride in the breadth and depth of educational opportunities offered at Greenfield- Central Community Schools, proudly reflects on the district’s achievements in technology beyond the classroom, citing examples of student success in competitive arenas such as theVexRobotics and NASA moon rover competition. These accomplishments exemplify the district’s innovative use of technology and the opportunities provided to students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, further enhancing their skills and experiences.“We’re doing things that are out of the ordinary,” Dr. Olin states. OVERCOMING RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION CHALLENGES IN EDUCATION The education sector, not unlike many others, faces significant hurdles in recruitment and retention, 194 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 05 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 01