Competitive Workforce

Caldwell’s history is rich in craftsmanship, manufacturing and textiles. Furniture has been the mainstay of the region for generations. As manufacturing finds its way across international waters to less expensive labor forces and less restrictive resource management, Caldwell must diversify its economy and provide training and jobs for the New Global Economy.

One of Caldwell County’s greatest challenges is preparing a workforce for jobs available today and those that will be available tomorrow. A diverse and dynamic group of educators and leaders have formed the Competitive Workforce/Education Community Work Group. Their passion for preparing Caldwell County’s population for real jobs and careers with real opportunity is seen in the refined Vision and Objectives from the 20/20 Community Consensus Strategy of 2008.

VISION & OBJECTIVES

Vision: Caldwell County will have a globally competitive and prepared workforce. A seamless training system will provide a first-class education, ensuring all workers the opportunity to obtain quality employment and thrive.

Objective 1: Ensure that K-12 public schools are optimal learning environments for Caldwell County youth.

Objective 2: Enhance early-childhood education in Caldwell County.

Objective 3: Increase career-focused and entrepreneurial-education opportunities for Caldwell County students.

Objective 4: Fully engage the local business community and philanthropic support to increase educational opportunities.

Objective 5: Optimize the impact of two- and four-year colleges on local workforce competitiveness.

CHILDREN'S COALITION

The Children's Coalition is a diverse group of education, government services and healthcare professionals focused on better preparing all Caldwell County children for entry into kindergarten. The group is currently assessing all efforts, private and public, to prepare and screen children for school and hopes to develop a county-wide strategy for early childhood school readiness.

2010-2015 CALDWELL COUNTY SCHOOLS STRATEGIC PLAN

CCS has developed its five year plan which is available to the public in summary form at caldwellschools.com. High levels of proficiency, performance and accountability are outlined within the plan.

2009/2010 CALDWELL COUNTY SCHOOLS SCORES
Caldwell County Schools made dramatic progress during the past school year. Overall scores and graduation rates increased. Go to www.caldwellschools.com for details.

COMPETITIVE WORKFORCE/EDUCATION WORK GROUP

This work group currently meets regularly to address education and workforce development issues. Increasing the value of education and increasing educational attainment within Caldwell County are prime focus areas. The group is made up of educators, business leaders, government officials and private citizens.

Chairwoman:

Dr. Caryl Burns, Associate Superintendent of Schools, Caldwell County

Facilitator:

Deborah Murray

Members:

Dr. Bob Esch, Bill Schreiber, Regina Barrier, Stephen Martin, Shawn Clemmons, Katrina Watson, Janet Wilson, Deborah Ashley, Debbie Eller, Kathy Jo Eckard, Don Barrier, Kenneth Lee, Alice Lentz, Michelle Colvard, Edward Terry.

(The Work Group continues to meet and new participants are welcome to join. For more information, contact 20/20 at 828-726-2609.)

Experience Education

Watch for this exciting development later this year!