Highlights from the HACTC - Mar. 18

We talk a lot at the HACTC about launching students' journeys. Right now our juniors are busy packing for their journey - learning the skills that they will take with them on their journey. For our seniors, right now many are quite nervous. They're about to step into the canoe, but it's feeling wobbly, there are waves, and they're not sure they picked the right boat.

We have said this to our seniors, but it's worth repeating - there are folks at the HACTC who can help students launch their journeys. Our school counselor, Jason Finley, is a fantastic resource for students and can help students talk over options or apply for scholarships. Students also have great resources in their program instructors and paras. Parents, if you have a senior who is feeling lost, encourage them to connect with us, we want to support them.

-Erika Schneider

March 20 - No school, in-service day

March 26, 6:00 PM - National Technical Honor Society Induction, Hartford High School Auditorium

We recently recognized these students for embodying the fourth word in our mission statement, Work:

Rotary Club of White River Students of the Month are chosen for their leadership and putting service above self in their programs. They receive a certificate and gift certificate to a local restaurant. These students were recognized at our last assembly:

• Health and Human Sciences, Level I: Mackenzy Carrier, Hartford High School
• Health and Human Sciences, Level II: Sadie Mullen, Hartford High School

In CTE, students have been learning life skills like budgeting, taxes, and credit scores. Students learned about recipes and grocery prices, creating a menu for a family of four and then costing out the ingredients at Price Chopper. They also practiced riding Advance Transit so they can get around the Upper Valley for free. Some recent experiences students particularly enjoyed include exploring different career options, learning how to change oil in Auto Tech, and working on fenders in AMC. They appreciate that they've gotten to try tech programs they might not otherwise have considered and making new friends.

A recent highlight for the Culinary level I students was the annual Chili Cookoff! Students were tasked with creating their own chili recipes and cooking a batch big enough for the whole center to try. Another project they enjoyed was studying how to make French mother sauces, like bechamel. They also learned a lot about customer service during the Getaway soft opening and recent pop-up lunch shops. Several students pointed out that they're learning a lot of life/transferable skills in this program, too, and that it helps you grow as a person.

In level II, students have been working on a project designing a new restaurant from the ground up. They've recently learned how to cost out a menu. They've also been busy making food for various catering jobs and pop-up shops. Student in this class really want others to know what an immersive experience the Culinary program is, and when you are in the class, you become family.

Some students from both programs also recently participated in Junior Iron Chef VT, working in teams to create dishes in a timed contest.

Level I IMW students have been practicing 1G welding in all positions and TIG welding. They're very enthusiastic about a project they are wrapping up, where they each designed and built a lamp, including shade, using a lamp kit, old license plate, and materials from the shop. They love how much time they spend hands-on in the shop and how the teacher and para take their time to explain things.

In level II, students recently learned inner shield flux core welding. They practiced T-joint positions and made a box using the process. They enjoyed the wall shelf project and are now working on building tables, learning how to tweak the design so they're level, and are excited about being creative. Several students are also working on individual projects, building racks, frames, crash bars, etc.

• Microsoft Excel - Starts April 28; click here to register for the Excel course!
• Phlebotomy - Starts May 18; click here to register for Phlebotomy!
• LNA - Starts July 7; click here to register for the LNA class!
• Dental Assisting - Starts in September; click here to join the Dental Assisting Waitlist!

To browse and register for all of our upcoming classes:

• Facebook
• Instagram @HACTCAdultEd
• www.hactc.com/adult-ed

Director of Adult Education: Jennifer Opalinski · adulted@hartfordschools.net · (802) 295-8630 x2504

Nate joined the HACTC this year, and his interest and experience with cars makes him a welcome addition to both Auto Tech and Auto Body shops! Fun fact about Nate: he road tripped across the United States in 2024.