Jan 17
The Ohio Department of Higher Education recently recognized the Washington County Career Center - Adult Technical Training as one of the higher education institutions to achieve the Ohio Reach Postsecondary designation. This recognition is a testament to the efforts in supporting students with experience in foster care or kinship.
The Ohio Reach Postsecondary designation is awarded to campuses that meet specific criteria demonstrating their commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students with foster care connections. Ohio Reach, administered through the Ohio Children's Alliance, is a statewide network comprising professionals, advocates, and students dedicated to supporting former foster youth on their educational journey. The program provides invaluable resources to institutions of higher education, child welfare agencies, and foster care alumni enrolled in higher education to ensure their academic success.
Governor Mike DeWine highlighted the significance of the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation, stating, "If they don't have a trusted adult to help guide them, some foster-connected youth may be especially attracted to schools with the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation knowing that they'll receive support if needed. This extra support and guidance could make a meaningful difference and help a student continue along a successful path to live their version of the American dream.”
Ohio Reach Postsecondary designation recognizes colleges, universities, and Ohio Technical Centers that go above and beyond to support students with foster care connections. Washington County Career Center - Adult Technical Training joins a select group of institutions in receiving this designation. Adult Technical Training Director Evan Schaad added, “We are honored to earn this designation through the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Ohio Children’s Alliance. Washington County Career Center Adult Technical Training is ready to help support our students who have experience in foster care as they receive training to help them meet their career goals.”
In addition to the Washington County Career Center - Adult Technical Training, 27 other colleges, universities, and Ohio Technical Centers across the state were also recognized for their exemplary commitment to providing a supportive educational environment for students with foster care connections.
“Foster youth can face many challenges in their young lives,” said Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Director Matt Damschroder. “These institutions provide stability and a pathway to success that will help lift foster youth and propel them into reaching their full potential.”
For more information about the Washington County Career Center – Adult Technical Training, visit www.thecareercenter.net or call 1.800.648.3695. The school is located at 21740 State Route 676, Marietta, Ohio, and provides in-demand training to adults throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley.