Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) hosted an exclusive regional screening of the education documentary “Multiple Choice” at the Academies of Loudoun on Thursday, April 17. The evening also included a student showcase around Career and Technical Education (CTE) experiences and a panel discussion featuring staff, students and business partners.
For decades, America’s data-driven college-for-all agenda created a no-win choice for many high school graduates: take on the risk and expense of college or work a low-wage job. But in an economically-challenged Winchester, Virginia, school Superintendent Dr. Jason Van Heukelum demonstrated the immense power of career-based learning – not as a last-chance resort for some, but as foundational for all.
“The ‘Multiple Choice’ screening and panel discussion emphasized that a future-ready education means fostering both college readiness and hands-on, CTE pathways, ensuring every student has options and opportunity to discover interests,” said LCPS Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ashley Ellis. “I was inspired to see school leaders, families and business partners come together to engage in this important conversation.”
The lively panel discussion was moderated by Dr. William Hazel, Chief Executive Officer of Claude Moore Opportunities, and included:
Dr. Aaron Spence - LCPS, Superintendent
Dr. Jason Van Heukelum - Winchester Public Schools, Superintendent
Lisa Marie Horvatinovich - Northrup Grumman, LCPS CTEAC Chair
Kasi Horvatinovich - LCPS, Junior at Tuscarora High School
Kristin Carter - NVCC, Associate Director of Dual Enrollment
Dr. Michael Grubbs - LCPS, Director of Career and Technical Education
The film “Multiple Choice” immerses viewers in the Winchester school division’s Innovation Center, where all students explore diverse careers, collaborate and master traditional and new-economy skills. Amid political turmoil and tech upheaval, “Multiple Choice” offers an inspiring vision of kids finding purposeful paths, with a community united toward the goal of prosperity for all.