Greater Lawrence Tech Pitches Need for Improved Access to Career Technical Education

From left, Greater Lawrence Technical School Superintendent John Lavoie, Methuen City Councilor Patricia Valley, Lawrence City Councilor Stephany Infante, GLTS District Committee Vice Chair Julio Mejia and Metal Fabrication Instructor David Thompson during a tour of the Metal Fabrication shop. (Courtesy photograph.)

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Greater Lawrence Technical School recently made the case to area legislators to increase access to vocational technical education, while pressing to keep admission standards.

During what was dubbed a “Legislator’s Breakfast,” Superintendent John Lavoie thanked legislators and elected officials from the four sending districts for their support, but emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for students and the community where vocational programs are increasingly essential for workforce development.

“Our legislators are always happy to hear about the growth and expansion of new programs here at GLTS, and how they can contribute to our continued success by creating more opportunities for our students and community,” Lavoie said.

The superintendent used the opportunity to critique the state’s proposed admissions lottery. He said maintaining specific admission criteria is vital in preserving the school’s mission of preparing a skilled workforce that meets the needs of local employers and supports a thriving regional economy.

He highlighted several developments, including the upcoming Aviation Maintenance Technology Program, which is expected to open in Fall 2025, pending Federal Aviation Administration approval this spring and final approval from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Lavoie also shared plans to potentially introduce additional career technical education programs, such as Veterinary Science and Animal Science, in collaboration with the MSPCA in Methuen. He said he is also exploring opportunities to secure additional space off campus to expand health career programs, which remain in high demand among students and employers in the region.

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