Wanda English Burnett
Editor

A presentation about Project Lead the Way, a program that has changed academics at Jac-Cen-Del High School, is being offered to parents, students and the entire community next Monday, February 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the high school cafeteria.

According to Principal Johnny Budd, the program has exceeded any of his expectations and has truly changed the learning process for students at JCD. “The students will tell you the program is tough, hard and yet their favorite,” Budd told The Versailles Republican.

He encouraged the community at large to come to the presentation where students will highlight what they learn through the program.

Three key components to the program are critical thinking, problem solving, and collaborate, which of course are the elements used in any career choice the students may make.

Budd advises all students to take the program, noting that the skills learned will benefit them in any field they decide to go in to in life. The project-based groups teach students the skills of teamwork. “They see purpose in what they are doing,” Budd noted.

The three classes are open to any student in high school as well as top eighth graders at Jac-Cen-Del. Budd noted that other schools are looking at sending their students to their school for the digital electronics, because JCD is the only area school to offer it.

Now JCD offers three classes: Introduction to Engineering, Principals of Engineering, and Digital Electronics. A new program is being added that will offer the students advanced classes including Aerospace Technology and more at the Southeastern Career Center in Versailles. “We are excited about this new offering,” Budd noted.

Budd was quick to praise Ec015 for their efforts through the Ripley County Community Foundation for funding Project Lead the Way. “This program would not have been possible without this grant,” he told The Versailles Republican. “For that we are grateful.”

The principal, who has a hands-on approach for his students, recommends every student be involved in the Project Lead the Way program. “It provides essential skills for 21st century real world experiences,” he concluded.