Marshall ISD Expands Career & Technical Education to Build Strong Futures for Students and the Community

Marshall, TX – Marshall ISD is proud to highlight the continued growth and success of its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which are preparing students with the skills, certifications, and confidence needed to thrive beyond high school.

Career & Technical Education (CTE) is an educational pathway that blends real-world knowledge with academic and technical training, giving students the tools to succeed in a wide variety of high-demand industries. At Marshall ISD, students as early as junior high have the opportunity to explore potential career paths in areas such as healthcare, business management, technology, and science.

According to the American Institutes for Research, students who participate in CTE during high school are more likely to be employed after graduation than their peers who do not. In fact, CTE has proven positive effects on academic achievement, graduation rates, employability skills, and college readiness. More importantly, research shows no negative impacts, making CTE a safe and effective investment in students’ futures.

Key benefits of CTE include:

• Real-world, hands-on skills that connect learning to career opportunities.
• Industry-recognized certifications that give students a competitive edge.
• Preparation for college, trade school, military service, or direct entry into the workforce.
• Stronger employability through teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership development.
• Increased engagement in school by making learning relevant and practical.
• Economic impact through a skilled workforce that supports local businesses.

“CTE is more than just classes—it’s about preparing our students for real success while also strengthening Marshall’s future workforce,” said Rush Harris CEcD, Executive Director of Marshall Economic Development.

“We are building opportunities that benefit not only our students but also the entire community.” Marshall ISD has seen remarkable growth in CTE participation, with record numbers of students enrolling at both Marshall Junior High and Marshall High School. Industry-recognized certifications are also at an all-time high, reflecting the district’s commitment to preparing students for success after graduation.

As Marshall ISD works toward becoming a premier CTE destination in East Texas, the program continues to shape brighter futures for students while creating lasting benefits for local employers and the community as a whole. For more information about the positive impact of CTE nationwide, visit AIR’s report on CTE.