Bowie Independent School District officials met Monday night and discussed the progress of the career and technology education and veterinary technician programs offered at the high school. Board members said these courses are preparing students for a career, not just college.

Representatives from Cross Timbers Veterinary Hospital in Bowie, who work with the district, agree.
This is the first year for the vet tech program at Bowie High School, and the program has 13 students currently enrolled.

Cross Timbers representatives said they hope to expand the program. Other CTE classes offered to high school students are photography, agriculture and advanced animal science.

Kelly Shackelford, principal of Bowie High School, said more than half of the students take these courses, adding this opportunity goes beyond the classroom. “They’re having a lot of opportunities to work in the community with some of our community leaders, and they are doing a great job. Learning is a door that swings both ways, and students are getting a great opportunity to help people in the community, and in return, they’re getting a great education,” said Shackelford.

School officials also approved adding security cameras to the elementary, junior high, and adding more to the high school. The total cost of the project will be about $90,000. Superintendent Steven Monkres said student safety is the board’s number one priority and being proactive is a must. He hopes the cameras will eliminate any possible problems and give a solution if anything does occur.

These security cameras will be added to the interior and exterior of the campuses. Monkres said the board has wanted to do this project for a while, and it will be funded by the school board’s bond that was passed several years ago.

The board will also add security cameras to the school district’s administration building to ensure the safety of school officials.

– Newschannel 6