Bonanza Junior/Senior High School is embarking on a transformative journey with the introduction of a two-year pre-apprenticeship training program in construction and carpentry. The school, bolstered by nearly $500,000 in grants from the Bureau of Labor and Industries and Oregon Department of Education, is set to revitalize its shop and equip students with essential skills for future employment.
Principal Jordan Osborn highlighted that over 60% of Bonanza's senior class has expressed interest in the skilled trades. Recognizing the students' aspirations, Osborn emphasized the crucial need for high school training to facilitate their entry into these professions. The program aims to be life-changing for Bonanza students, providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities.
The graduates of this two-year program will earn a pre-apprenticeship certificate, a valuable asset for entering the skilled trades. To support this initiative, Bonanza has hired a construction and agriculture mechanics teacher and already commenced its first pre-apprenticeship class this fall. Plans are in place to offer three additional classes starting in September 2024 under a state-registered program.
Anticipating an enrollment of 35 students in the coming year, Bonanza High School will make it mandatory for all students to take an introductory CTE/construction/manufacturing class. Junior high school students will also partake in an exploratory class to ignite their interest in the field.
Klamath County School District, having initiated a state-registered pre-apprenticeship program at Henley High School in 2023, is expanding its success to Bonanza with a $228,000 grant. This expansion is in collaboration with Klamath Community College, Southern Oregon Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, and various industry organizations.
Bonanza's ambitious plans are further supported by a $250,000 ODE CTE revitalization grant, facilitating the renovation of the shop and procurement of necessary equipment. This grant will also empower both Bonanza and Henley to acquire four trailers for transporting supplies and facilitating construction and carpentry projects.
Osborn, thrilled about the progress, shared the news with the community, underscoring the significance of these grants in advancing the school's facilities and enhancing student opportunities. These grants, totaling $1.4 million over the last two years, exemplify Bonanza's commitment to providing quality education and fostering practical skills among its students.
