Spring ISD Eighth Graders Discover Career Possibilities at Career Destination 2025
Over 1,300 eighth-grade students from across Spring ISD stepped into their futures last week at Career Destination 2025, a two-day interactive showcase held at the Randall Reed Community Center and hosted by the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department.
Designed to inspire and inform, the annual event gave middle school students a firsthand look at the district’s wide range of CTE high school programs—from pre-medical studies and law to automotive technology, culinary arts, animation, and more. Every high school pathway was on display, with hands-on exhibits and student-led demonstrations that made learning feel real and exciting.
Spring ISD’s CTE programs offer students real-world experiences, certifications, and training across a variety of in-demand industries. By participating in these programs, students can graduate not only with a diploma but also with a head start on college, careers, or both.
“This is our biggest event for eighth graders,” said Cynthia Williams, Director of Career and Technical Education for Spring ISD. “We bring every middle school to see all of the district’s pathways, and we use our high school students to lead the hands-on activities. Eighth graders really connect with them, ask great questions, and leave with a clearer idea of what they want to study in high school.”
Throughout the event space, high school students served as ambassadors for their programs, offering insights into what it's like to pursue a career-focused education. These peer-to-peer conversations created a welcoming environment for the younger students to ask questions and explore their interests without pressure.
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Among the student leaders was Thaddeus Handy, a senior at Dekaney High School enrolled in the Pre-Medical Studies Pathway. He credits the program with giving him a clear direction for his future.
“I grew up around nurses; my mom, my sister, and my aunts were all in the medical field,” Handy said. “Helping people has always been part of who I am. Even when I was younger, I’d pick the healer roles in games. Joining the pre-med pathway showed me what that really looks like and gave me a plan for where I want to go.”
Handy emphasized that many students don’t realize the range of programs available until it’s too late to take full advantage of them. “Even my best friend didn’t know there was a CCMA or pre-medical studies pathway — they thought it was just one class,” he shared. “Once they learned about it, it opened up so many doors. That’s why it’s important to show younger students these programs early.”
At the Westfield High School Law Pathway table, senior Aleyjah Evans explained how the legal track gave her real-world insights and practical skills. “Our teacher makes it real,” Evans said. “We work with fingerprints, practice investigative skills, and learn how to communicate in professional settings. It’s the kind of experience that prepares you for what’s next in life.”
Live demonstrations, such as a welding session hosted by Westfield’s FFA and a showcase from ExxonMobil’s Teen Engineering Program featuring robotic dog “Sparky,” added extra excitement to the day. Culinary students plated tasty treats, animation students showed off digital portfolios, and aspiring business leaders presented marketing projects.
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For many eighth graders, the experience was transformative. Makaya Davis, a student at Bailey Middle School, already has a vision for her future thanks to the event. “I really liked the Westfield Army JROTC table,” she said. “That’s what I want to go to college for. It was great seeing students from the high school where I’ll go next year. Go Mustangs!”
Events like Career Destination 2025 align with Spring ISD’s larger commitment to providing meaningful, future-ready learning. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar, the district continues to expand programs that bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world experience.
“Career Destination reflects our district’s commitment to preparing every student to be future-ready,” said Dr. Cuellar. “When students have opportunities to explore and connect their interests early, they gain the skills and confidence that open doors long after graduation.”
To explore the full range of Career and Technical Education programs available to Spring ISD students, visit springisd.org/cte.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
