MAVA Colleagues,
As you are well aware, advocacy is one of the major concerns of the MAVA Leadership Team as it is with each of you. One simple yet powerful example of advocacy, irrespective of the issue, is a “personal first-hand look”…. just as we say we want all 8th graders to experience.
If you have not done so this year, every voc-tech and aggie school should attempt to schedule an event inviting your State Senator(s) & Representatives to visit and get a “first-hand look” (as well as representatives of the local media). What a powerful “no cost” advocacy activity it will be!!
David
PR for Police, Fire
Whittier Tech Hosts Tour for Federal, State, Local Lawmakers
February 17, 2023 Tom Zuppa
Superintendent Maureen Lynch shares that federal, state, and local officials toured Whittier Tech recently to learn more about the unique career technical education programming being offered, and about proposals for the building’s future.
During the tour on Monday, Feb. 13, Vocational/Technical Coordinator Paul Moskevitz highlighted programs that prepare graduates to enter high-demand fields such as Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Health Assisting, and Nursing. Whittier graduates gain industry certifications and experience through co-op job placements that ensure they are sought-after for high-paying jobs upon graduation.
Attendees also toured the Marine Service Technology pathway area, which has been supported by the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association and about three dozen industry groups. The Adult Evening Education program, which trains unemployed or underemployed adults for entry-level jobs, has graduated four classes.
Whittier launched its day program last fall for the incoming first-year class. The marine industry faces an urgent need for technicians, and businesses reach out to Whittier for help.
“Our phone rings off the hook,” Superintendent Lynch said.
Attendees included U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, state Sen. Barry Finegold, state Sen. Pavel Payano, state Rep. Ryan Hamilton, state Rep. Kristin Kassner, state Rep. Adrianne Ramos, state Rep. Andy Vargas, Haverhill Mayor James Fiorentini, and Newburyport Mayor Sean Reardon.
Whittier Tech is working with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) in an effort to renovate and/or replace the Whittier Tech building. Whittier Tech’s building was constructed in 1973. During the past 50 years, Whittier has worked diligently to maintain and adapt the building to changing needs. However, the building is not best-equipped to support new technology and the needs of the 21st-century workforce. “The problem with a tour like this is that we look good,” Superintendent Lynch told lawmakers. “Behind the walls is a different story.”
David J. Ferreira
MAVA Communications Coordinator
DavidFerreira
