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The Decatur Central Career Center offers hands-on career training in high interest programs.
School Board President, Judy Collins, cuts the ribbon, officially marking the opening of the Decatur Central Career Center. Also pictured: School Board Members, Decatur Township Administration, Teachers, Students, and Community Members
(August 25, 2023) – INDIANAPOLIS – The MSD of Decatur Township hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to officially mark the opening of the Decatur Central Career Center. As an extension of Decatur Central High School and Decatur Township School for Excellence, this building houses programs for construction, manufacturing, agriculture science, and health sciences.
“Our vision in Decatur Township is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready, and the new Decatur Central Career Center offers multiple opportunities for students to train and prepare for their future careers,” said Dr. Matt Prusiecki, Superintendent of the MSD of Decatur Township.
About the DC Career Center
Decatur Central High School has offered construction, manufacturing, and agriculture science programs for the last few years. Exercise Science is a new course, starting for the current 2023-2024 school year. More courses in health services are on the horizon. With student interest and enrollment in these programs increasing, it became clear that a separate facility would be necessary to house the space and equipment needed for hands-on learning and training. DCHS Principal Tom Wachnicki shared, “We are very excited that we have grown these career pathways for our students. With a shortage of workers in all of these areas, we are setting our students up for immediate employment in high-wage industries that allow them to build an exciting career and future!” Kate Andrews, Principal at Decatur Township School for Excellence added that, “DTSE is so excited to have a new Career Center here in Decatur that focuses on the post-secondary opportunities for our students. What a great way to prepare our students for the future.”
The building was constructed from the former district bus garage, and further enhanced to meet the needs of these developing career pathways. Designed by Architects at DELV Design, and built by Patterson Horth General Contractors, the center is located directly across from Decatur Central High School, adjacent to the Devere Fair Football Stadium. Construction began in June of 2022. The inside of the building was completed for move-in on June 1st, 2023, and final exterior tasks are in-process now. The center also houses a concession stand and restroom facilities for the Devere Fair Stadium events.
Programming and Partners
A variety of courses in the four pathways are currently offered at the DCCC, Including (but not limited to) Principles of Construction, Framing & Finishing, Smart Manufacturing, Robotics & Innovation, Principles of Agriculture, Sustainable Energy, Agribusiness Management, and Principles of Exercise Science. The Decatur Central Career Center is proud to partner with the Indiana/Kentucky/Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters and Ivy Tech for certification and dual credit opportunities. Dr. Stephanie Hofer, Assistant Superintendent stated, “It’s so exciting to see students, not only graduating from high school, but doing so with credit toward post-secondary opportunities such as certifications, college, or apprenticeships, and our partnerships are a large part of this.” The team is currently working to develop additional partnerships in all areas and would love an opportunity to begin a conversation with interested potential partners.
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About MSD Decatur Township
The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested, community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement
MSD of Decatur Township
elemay@decaturproud.org
317-856-5265
