Trickum Middle School instructional coach selected for LEAD CTAE program

     Veronica Ingram, a Junior Leadership Corps Instructional Coach at Trickum Middle School, has been selected for the ninth cohort of the LEAD CTAE program. This program, coordinated by the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Resource Network, the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), and the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education (GACTE), is designed to meet the instructional career development needs of Georgia educators.

     “It is truly an honor to be selected to be a member of the LEAD CTAE Cohort, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside other dedicated educators,” Ingram says. “I hope to grow professionally, and to bring back ideas that I can implement into my classroom in a way that directly benefits my students.”

     This leadership development program is designed for CTAE classroom teachers and school counselors who wish to gain valuable skills and knowledge in team building, leadership, priority management, business engagement, legislative advocacy and policy, communication, instruction, economic development, and more. Members of the cohort will participate in six program sessions culminating at the annual GACTE summer conference.

     Dustin Davis-Austin, Gwinnett County Public Schools’ (GCPS) Director of Academies and CTAE, says this honor underscores the importance of quality career, technical, and agricultural education in preparing students for success. During this year-long program, Ingram will expand her skills and leadership in all aspects of CTAE, including its impact on economic development, advocacy, awareness of CTAE programs, and communication. Davis-Austin adds that the connections and knowledge Ingram gains will help her become a stronger educator and advocate for her students.

     “Ms. Ingram will have the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from exceptional CTAE teachers and school counselors from across Georgia,” Davis-Austin explains. “Georgia's LEAD CTAE program recognizes educators who are committed to innovative, industry-aligned instruction, and being part of this cohort validates the work we're doing to give our students meaningful pathways to their futures.”

     This ninth class of 18 teachers and two counselors represents high schools, middle schools, and college and career academies from 20 school systems and 14 program areas. The elite group, selected from more than 140 applicants, kicked off the nine-month professional learning program in October at Lake Lanier Islands. Graduation will be celebrated at the 2026 GACTE conference in Columbus, Ga.