Students in Arlington County returned to the classroom on Monday, but many did so in a brand‑new facility: the Grace Hopper Center, a state‑of‑the‑art hub for career‑technical education (CTE) operated by Arlington Public Schools.
Hands‑on programs for every interest
The center houses 24 CTE programs, ranging from automotive body repair and cosmetology to TV production and culinary arts. Four full‑time pathways, including three non‑traditional tracks and the Governor’s STEM Academy, Arlington Tech, are housed under one roof, allowing students from across the county to enroll throughout the day.
Superintendent Francisco Durán expressed enthusiasm for the new building, saying, “So excited to finally have this building come together. It’s been many years of our work. So many offerings for students to explore, choose, learn new paths and just be thoughtful about what might be out there for them in the future.”
Student‑driven projects take flight
One standout program is automotive body repair. Last year, students built an electric car that can reach 90 mph, though instructor Wilmer Castro limits it to 35 mph for safety during class use. This month the team will add a second row and autonomous capabilities, allowing the vehicle to move forward and reverse on its own. “It was just a shell,” Castro said. “We decided to turn this into a bigger project‑based learning experience.” The project, developed with computer‑science students, has already earned multiple awards throughout the Commonwealth.
Culinary arts get a modern kitchen
The culinary arts program recently moved from an older kitchen into a brand‑new commercial‑grade space. Instructor Renee Randolph noted that the upgrade has “fired up” students, who now receive training in food safety, sanitation, equipment operation, flavor development, and food‑service management. The program even operates a small café that serves the surrounding community.
Opening doors for all learners
Co‑principal Kimberly Jackson‑Davis emphasized that the center benefits students who are still exploring career options. “It does help the students that don’t know exactly what they want to do, because you’re recognizing all the things that are out there for you,” she said.
Freshman Evie Viola echoed the excitement, describing the new building as “very easy to get lost in, but it’s very fun. The CTE courses are everywhere, which is a fun aspect.”
Community impact
Beyond classroom instruction, the Grace Hopper Center serves as a community resource, offering workshops, competitions, and the café mentioned above. By providing real‑world skills and pathways to well‑paid trades, the center aligns with Arlington’s commitment to preparing the next generation for both college and the workforce.
As the school year gets underway, families and local businesses alike are watching the center’s impact, hopeful that its innovative approach will strengthen the county’s economy and give young people a solid foundation for the future.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
