Business View Civil Municipal - Sept 2023

149 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 9 HAZLETON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT The district’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce is evident in its efforts to align its programs with the needs of the local industry. “A lot of warehouses are coming into the Hazleton area. So, to have our students job-ready when they graduate from us...is paramount,” Dr. Uplinger explains. In addition to its career center, the district also offers a standalone STEM program and an Arts and Humanities program. These programs cater to students with varying interests and career aspirations, providing them with a well-rounded education. “We also have a...STEM program...and... an arts and humanities program for the students,” Dr. Uplinger states. The district works closely with neighboring colleges and universities to ensure its programs align with post-secondary education requirements. Addressing the Teacher Shortage Like many districts across the country, the Hazleton Area School District is grappling with a teacher shortage. However, the district is not sitting idle. It’s exploring innovative recruitment strategies, including programs that fast- track certification for aspiring teachers. “There are several different programs that some of our local universities and even our intermediate unit have been helping out with,” Dr. Uplinger explains. These programs allow individuals to work while completing their certification requirements, providing a flexible pathway into teaching. These initiatives reflect the district’s commitment to not just providing quality education to its students, but also creating a supportive and inclusive environment for its staff. By pioneering innovative educational pathways and recruitment strategies, the Hazleton Area School District is leading the way in addressing the challenges of the 21st-century educational landscape.