February is Career and Technical Education Month, and the Kirkwood Washington County Regional Center is a top local resource for area students. 

The Regional Center offers college credit in high school courses with a focus on future careers. In the 2024–25 school year, Kirkwood’s dual enrollment partnerships saved high school students and families more than $11.5 million in tuition. Kirkwood partners with local districts including Highland, Hillcrest Academy, Keota, Lone Tree, Mid-Prairie, WACO, Washington, and area home school associations. 

Career and technical education plays a strong role in Iowa’s economy and workforce. According to the Association for Career and Technical Education, each year, more than 100,000 Iowa high school students enroll in such programs, gaining practical experience and preparing them for what comes after high school. 

According to the Iowa Department of Education, nearly 45% of Iowa high school seniors report completing a work-based learning experience such as an internship, apprenticeship, or job shadow before graduation. The Kirkwood Workplace Learning Connection helps students build connections by partnering with local businesses to create career-focused opportunities. 

High school students in eighth-11th grade and their families can explore the plan of study for 2026-2027 to see how career and technical education pathways align with interests and high school schedules.