What do participants explore and experience in the 10 monthly sessions of Leadership Upper Valley? This first installment of a yearlong series by John Drew, the program’s new manager, describes Education Day, which Lebanon Superintendent Joanne Roberts helped plan. Future sessions will look at the Upper Valley’s arts sector, health and human services, justice, governance, transportation, housing, and economic development. See the series so far here.
A student in the HACTC Industrial Mechanics and Welding program. Other programs include automotive technology and bodywork, building trades, business administration, cosmetology, culinary arts, digital design and graphic arts, education, and health sciences,
On October 12, a generous group of local educators, facilitated by Lebanon Superintendent Joanne Roberts, offered their thoughts on the challenges and opportunities in educating young people in the Upper Valley in 2022. A morning panel of eductors discussed the range of educational options available in the region and shared that these last two years have been a painful reminder that students can’t learn well without their basic needs being met. As COVID-era programs are ending, there are many questions about where support will come from to continue to support students and families. An afternoon panel of school counselors offered their thoughts about student support through the lens of mental health. LUV participants were grateful for the work these professionals are doing, and the time they spent with us to share stories of care, concern, and growth.
The group was treated to a wonderful lunch at the Hartford Area Career and Technology Center Getaway Restaurant. The culinary arts students were performing their first service since Getaway reopened, and despite some potential nerves offered a squash soup, pork with brussel sprouts and an apple tart dessert that we all really enjoyed. HACTC Director Erika Schneider presented the range of programs available to juniors and seniors, followed by a tour of the facility where we got a quick look at the huge range of facilities and programs available, and had a chance to speak with enthusiastic students who shared their projects with us.
The day closed with what will be an ongoing discussion amongst the LUV participants that will deepen with each topic we experience – what can Upper Valley leaders do to help the region’s residents thrive?
Published 10/21/22