Licking County Students: Bright Futures Ahead
Imagine a place where students start exploring their dream careers in elementary and middle school, teachers get the recognition they deserve, and high schoolers graduate with the skills to transition into higher education or the workforce. That’s what’s happening in Licking County schools, thanks to organizations working together to create a brighter future for students.
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Connecting Passion and Career
Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County (C-TEC) is a game-changer for high schoolers who want to dive right into a career. Its 21 programs offer students experience in health care, IT, construction, cosmetology and more. Through C-TEC, students earn industry certifications and even get a head start on college credits. C-TEC also helps students with career counseling, internships and job placement.
During the day, students may spend time in labs, workshops and simulations. Because C-TEC works closely with local businesses, students can network with professionals and have internships. These opportunities help students discover their passion and explore different career paths while developing real-world skills.
The programs have proven successful. Ninety-eight percent of the students who attend C-TEC for their junior and senior years of high school successfully graduate.
“We’re proud of that,” says Joyce Malainy, C-TEC superintendent who retired in early 2025. “We work hard to help our students get their diplomas. Credentials and job skills are important, but the high school diploma is the foundation.”
C-TEC’s focus on hands-on learning keeps students motivated and invested in their education. When students are passionate about what they’re learning, they’re more likely to stay engaged.
C-TEC programs can begin even earlier than high school. “We have a variety of options and opportunities for students starting in kindergarten,” Malainy says. “We have a career development coordinator who will work with elementary schools at their request. We also offer career libraries and schedule guest speakers.”
With teachers in nine of the 10 associated school districts, C-TEC offers Career Connections, a program that encourages middle school students to identify their interests and strengths, helping them connect those to potential career paths. They learn about career clusters, and the education and training required for various jobs.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Likewise, Junior Achievement of Central Ohio has opened its second Learning Center in Newark, which is designed to inspire and empower the next generation. Through immersive programs like JA BizTown and JA Finance Park, elementary and middle school students are able to step into simulated workplaces, exploring career possibilities, building essential financial skills and gaining an understanding of the decisions adults make every day.
“As a teacher, I know how important it is to make learning experiences real and relevant for my students. I also know firsthand how Junior Achievement supports that idea through opportunities that extend students’ thinking beyond the classroom,” says Telisha Knight, an educator at Newark Legend Elementary School. “They get to have fun, make memories and learn what it looks like to be an adult – all things that are valuable for students and that I’m sure will stick with them.”
These learning experiences wouldn’t be possible without dedicated volunteers and business partnerships. Local organizations bring Junior Achievement’s curriculum to life, creating valuable connections between students and professionals.
Funding Education and Innovation
The Licking County Foundation supports students’ educational journeys, offering a variety of scholarships for those attending two-year or four-year colleges, vocational schools, and certificate programs.
The foundation also recognizes excellence in teaching with its Leaders for Learning Award, which honors exceptional educators in Licking County who demonstrate a commitment to student success. In addition to recognition, the award – supported by the Lindorf-Warner Memorial Fund of the Licking County Foundation – provides funding for professional development activities, allowing recipients to enhance their skills.
Beyond scholarships and awards, the foundation supports K-12 education with grants to schools for innovative programs and technology upgrades.
A Leader in Learning
Danielle Higgins knows a lot about education in Licking County. She’s a proud product of the local school system, and after college, she returned to teach at Heath Middle School. She loves her work and excels at it.
Her dedication has earned her recognition, including the Leaders for Learning Award from the Licking County Foundation, which supports outstanding teachers and funds professional development.
She is currently an eighth grade science teacher. In her 24 years at Heath, Higgins has taught various subjects to students in several grade levels.
How do Licking County schools set students up for success?
We are always looking to improve things. Our schools offer the newest and best education programs, but we do it with a hometown feel. Students here will get the best education available without living in a big-city environment.
What do you like most about your job?
I loved school, and I still love learning. I try to pass that love of learning along to students and really try to make it fun for them. My students will tell you they know I get excited when I get to teach them new things. Also, Heath, being a small school, allows me to see my students grow up, change and pursue their dreams. It’s not all rosy, but I love to come to work.
How is the Leaders for Learning Award beneficial to you?
I’m going to try to learn some stuff I can share with my students. I’m looking for new content and programs that will benefit them. I’m looking at STEAM in the Park, an immersive professional development program that empowers educators to connect learning with the wonders of national parks.
Get to Know Licking County
Want to learn more about living and working in Licking County, OH? Check out the latest edition of Livability Licking County, Ohio.