Health sciences receive similar realism. The six-bed nursing lab replicates both hospital and long-term care settings. Students in the Certified Nursing Assistant program complete clinical hours at local nursing homes. Thanks to Indorama, instructors now use a high-fidelity mannequin that they can “control from another room,” giving students dynamic scenarios that feel authentic. The district also features a welding shop, an agriculture program, and a construction lab with advanced trainers. Spell is proud of a diagnostic system that lets teachers introduce hidden faults students must identify and fix—a “big step forward,” he says, because it builds deeper understanding. The culinary arts facility includes a classroom with a live demonstration camera and five commercial-grade kitchen stations. The campus also houses a media studio with green-screen and recording equipment, extending learning into digital production. CTE FOR EVERY STUDENT’S JOURNEY Spell insists that CTE is not an alternative to the traditional track. “It’s a serious pathway for all students,” he says, whether they plan a four-year degree, immediate employment, or military service. Success, he explains, is about readiness for multiple futures. A strong partnership with Lamar State College-Port Arthur enables students to earn both dual credit and industry certifications. Spell recalls with pride that “four welding students walked across the stage at Lamar before graduating high school,” proving that district labs meet college-level standards. Dual credit options now include welding, automotive, culinary arts, and business management, with additional options to be added as workforce needs evolve. ACADEMIC STRENGTH AND SCHOLARSHIP SUCCESS Nederland also maintains a strong academic record. Dr. Beagle notes that students earn about four million dollars in scholarships each year. He attributes this to an “outstanding academic program” that includes both dual enrollment and Advanced Placement. Counselors guide students to the best 310 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11
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