economic growth.The city’s leadership understands the intrinsic link between a robust school system and the community’s overall health, particularly when attracting new residents and businesses. “Having a dynamic, excellent public school system is a dying breed,” Mayor Howell observes, acknowledging the rarity and value of high-performing schools today. Jefferson City Schools are a significant draw for families seeking a place to live and a community where their children can thrive. The mayor proudly notes that Jefferson High School ranks among the top 6% of high schools in the United States and first locally, making it a powerful tool in the city’s economic development efforts. The historical significance of education in Jefferson dates to the Martin Institute, an early educational institution where students once boarded on campus. Today, the Jefferson City School System carries on this legacy of excellence, consistently delivering top-tier educational outcomes. These results have a ripple effect on the local economy, influencing everything from residential growth to the viability of retail and commercial ventures.The quality of the school system is a crucial factor in why Jefferson is experiencing rapid population growth, with over 4,500 people moving to the area between July 2022 and July 2023. EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION As Jefferson continues to grow, the focus on workforce development is sharper than ever, particularly in response to the nationwide labor shortage.The city’s approach to preparing its youth for the workforce is rooted in providing diverse educational pathways that cater to different interests and aptitudes, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. “We are lucky to live in a town with a lot of options to meet kids where they are,” Mayor Howell explains, emphasizing the importance of offering alternatives to the traditional four-year college route. Recognizing that not every student aspires to attend a liberal arts college, Jefferson has invested in the Empower 192 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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