Event Program
Following a brief welcome from event hosts, Secretary of Education Jeffery Smith (invited), will bring remarks on what the Commonwealth of Virginia is doing from a policy and funding perspective to support schools in providing purposeful and prosperous pathways for all students.
Interspersed with clips from Multiple Choice , our panel discussion of regional leaders from education, workforce development, and industry, moderated by Jennifer Stevens, President and CEO of Virginia Ed Strategies, will explore the future of career-connected learning and student success in Halifax County and the greater region.
Our aim is to inspire focused dialogue about career-based learning, talent pipelines, and what it takes to prepare students for a world in which AI is already eliminating most entry-level jobs for fresh graduates. Together we will identify actionable next steps and build connections that contribute to transforming education and workforce development in the region.
Panelists include:
Amy Huskin, Superintendent, Halifax County Public Schools
Charlette Woolridge, Executive Director, Southern Virginia Higher Education Center
Linda Green , Executive Director, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance
Chad Patton, Dean of Career and Occupational Technologies, Southside Virginia Community College
Rebecca Saunders, Training & Development Instructional Design Leader, Hitachi Energy
HCHS student (TBD)
To open and close the program, Halifax County High School JROTC students will present and retire the colors.
About the Film
For decades, America’s data-driven college-for-all agenda has created a no-win choice for most high school graduates: take on the risk and expense of college or work a low-wage job. But in an economically-challenged Virginia community, one superintendent is demonstrating the immense power of career-based learning—not as a last-chance resort for some, but as foundational for all.
The film Multiple Choice immerses viewers in the district’s Innovation Center, where all students explore diverse careers, collaborate, and master traditional and new-economy skills. Amid political turmoil and tech upheaval, Multiple Choice offers an inspiring vision of kids finding purposeful paths, with a community united toward the goal of prosperity for all.
Watch a Sneak Peek HERE
Reception & Refreshments
Guests will enjoy a complimentary reception with light hors d’oeuvres and beverages prepared by HCHS culinary arts students.
This event is FREE, but advance registration is required.
