Recently, District Superintendents for Lauderdale County (Shawn Kimble), Haywood County (Amie Marsh), and Tipton County (Dr. John Combs) were keynote speakers during the TN Economic and Community Development’s annual Governor’s Conference (#GovCon23). The Superintendent panel discussed HTL (Haywood, Tipton, Lauderdale) University, a one-of-a-kind innovative collaboration between the three districts to expand access to career pathways.
HTL students will be immersed in STEM and career exploration activities and programming from the first days of Kindergarten to high school graduation. HTL University will provide high school graduates with opportunities to graduate with their high school diploma PLUS their choice of industry credentials, associate or TCAT degree, course credit toward a bachelor’s degree, or a guaranteed apprenticeship. Additionally, HTL University will inform families of potential career opportunities in the area and coordinate adult learning opportunities for those who desire to complete higher education.
HTL University is not fully implemented at this time, however, funding is being sought from various state and national entities and organizations so that the concept is fully in place for the 2024-25 school year.