As part of its mission to provide students with standards and skills necessary to succeed in a world class economy, Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) provides students the opportunity to sit for sought-after industry credential tests through the Office of Technical and Career Education. Tuesday, Feb. 26, VBPCS crossed over the 100,000 credential mark during testing at Green Run High School.

VBCPS began testing for industry credentials in 2002, the same year that the Virginia Department of Education started identifying them.

"We strive to be the vanguard of school divisions when it comes to preparing our students for whatever they decide to do after graduation," explained VBCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence. "Whether it's college, an apprenticeship, the military or employment right out of high school, VBCPS provides opportunities to support every young person's career dream."

Students who complete Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs participate in state-endorsed, industry-sponsored examinations that test technical skills. When a student passes the industry exam connected to the industry and course they are pursuing, a credential is awarded. This, when combined with the standard credit for a CTE course, can be used as a verified credit for graduation in most cases. By achieving standards that are recognized by business and industry, students' postsecondary options include more job opportunities and better salaries.

"It is critical that high school graduates leave us with the knowledge and skills needed to continue their learning and have choices in their future," said Dr. Sara Lockett, director of the office of technical and career education. "Our high school programs are strengthened by incorporating the opportunity to achieve sought-after industry credentials, growing opportunities for dual enrollment credit and internships with local businesses."

VBCPS/CTE offers more than 100 different industry credential tests, including AutoCAD, Photoshop, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Cosmetology State Board, Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), National Retail Federation (NRF) Customer Service Professional, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, W!SE Financial Management, Workforce Readiness and numerous National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) assessments.

For more information about VBCPS's CTE program, please visit vbschools.com.

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Department of Communications and Community Engagement, [email protected]

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