challenged to use AI in a more productive way than to disregard it,” underscores Superintendent Hooker. “I think it’s just another one of those areas that has made it here, and we’re going to make it as positive as we can.” CAREER PATHWAYS FOR EVERY STUDENT Thrall High School provides students with a wide range of career pathways designed to prepare them for both college and the workforce, with an emphasis on real world learning.“We have a program through Temple College in biomedical science where juniors and seniors can earn their associate’s degree,” Principal Nicole Tindol details.“We also collaborate with a plumbing apprenticeship program, and this year we are hosting it on our campus. One of our former students, who now owns his own business, is actually going to be our instructor leading our kids through that.” The district offers programs in graphic design, business, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and media. “We have a really good practicum here that is actually a business the kids have formed, where they make the products, and they sell the products. This program is called Practically Purple (to promote spirit!) and has their own store space added during the Bond 2022.They created an online presence, and it’s student run, student led, and a sponsor works with the kids through that,” describes Tindol. Students interested in social media, advertising, and marketing can also take part in Tiger Media where they are involved in media broadcasting, selling Tiger spirit gear, and interviewing students. “They create content that right now is primarily focused in different athletic avenues in our district, and they post that content,” she expands. Thrall ISD’s exceptional range of options also includes certifications in areas like nursing assistant, welding, and veterinary technician, where students learn from a working veterinarian.The goal of these offerings is to prepare graduates for either future education or careers right out of high school. CTE Director, Christina Strnad acknowledges, “Some of 409 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 THRALL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
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