New Hanover County Schools is proud to prepare students for a successful school year and equip them for successful careers. The implementation of innovative programs and resources in previous school years will continue and shows how we have prioritized career readiness for students to thrive in postsecondary education, career training, and the workplace.
 
We look forward to building upon initiatives launched last school year – including the Career, College, and Community Exploration Event held at Legion Stadium for 8-12th grade students and the middle school career leadership development academy supported by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. NHCS also offers several signature programs to meet students’ needs and interests. 

With a strong emphasis on career development, New Hanover County Schools has taken proactive steps to ensure students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields. NHCS students’ scores on WorkKeys, an assessment of career readiness, were fourth in the state last year, and ACT college-readiness test scores ranked eighth in North Carolina.
 
By partnering with local businesses and organizations, we can provide students with academic and real-world experiences and opportunities to explore various career paths. When we say we want all students to graduate college and career ready, we mean they can succeed in the workplace, a four-year university, a two-year college, trade school, the military, and other career-training programs without wasting time and money on remedial support. 

To further support career readiness, we have established strong relationships with local companies and community leaders to allow students to engage in internships, workshops, and mentoring programs that provide hands-on learning experiences. We invite local businesses and organizations to work with us by offering career and technical education (CTE) internships, which can help strengthen the local workforce. We hope you will open your doors to young people looking for internships, jobs, and promising careers in our region. For more information on how to offer CTE internships, contact [email protected]
 
By connecting students with professionals in various fields, NHCS ensures students have access to industry insights and guidance, helping them make informed decisions about their futures. We recognize the importance of preparing students for the ever-evolving job market. 
 
The district also implemented cutting-edge technology initiatives to enhance digital literacy skills and familiarize students with emerging technologies. New Hanover County Schools ensures its graduates are competitive in today’s technology-driven world by equipping students with the latest tools and knowledge.
 
 Through these initiatives and partnerships, New Hanover County Schools demonstrates its commitment to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential and become successful contributors to society. The district is equally committed to college and career readiness and continues to innovate to meet the changing needs of its students and local employers. Let us know what more we can do together and thank you for working with us.
 
Dr. Charles Foust is the superintendent of New Hanover County Schools