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WARREN -- Students and staff at Warren G. Harding High School took center stage at Tuesday's Warren Board of Education meeting as the district showed off new programs in music production, drones and welding.
These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills and industry credentials that school officials say expands post-secondary opportunities.
"We're preparing our students to be competitive in a rapidly changing world," Amy Clementi, Supervisor of School Improvement, said. "These courses provide not only skills, but also confidence and career readiness."
The presentation featured student demonstrations, including a drone obstacle course and a music production demonstration by freshman student Nyx Podgorny titled "Like Clockwork."
Podgorny thanked her instructor and expressed gratitude for the supportive environment. "Music is a big part of my life," she said. "This class has been an incredible experience, and I'm proud of what I've created."
Michael Mann, a welding student, shared how the program has shaped his future.
"This class has given me skills I can rely on," Mann said. "Whether I pursue engineering or welding, I know I have options."
The district said the programs also align with Ohio's graduation seals initiative, enabling students to earn credentials that demonstrate job readiness.
Superintendent Steve Chiaro discussed the importance of such offerings.
"These programs are a testament to our vision of preparing students for success, whether they enter college or the workforce," he said.
Music instructor Heather Sirney detailed her course's progression.
"Students learn to manipulate loops and create beats, building a portfolio they can take to college or tech schools," she said.
Drone instructor Tracy Liptak noted that class's growing popularity.
"We've moved from tethered drones to mobile operations, and next, we'll build larger drones and race them," she said. "It's exciting every day."
Welding teacher Thomas Sullivan highlighted hands-on projects like fire pits and custom tables. "This isn't just about welding, it's about creating something you're proud of," he said.
"These skills are applicable in real life," said board member Julian Walker. "Students can walk out of Harding and secure jobs paying as much as many adults earn."
Board Vice President Regina Patterson lauded the programs for their impact.
"It's incredible to see students not just learning but truly enjoying the process," she said. "These opportunities open doors for their futures."
"Impressive and proud are the words that come to mind. This makes me even prouder to promote our schools," board member Patrick Flanagan said.
Board President Patricia M. Limperos commended the instructors.
"The passion of these teachers is remarkable," she said. "Their influence will resonate with students for a lifetime."
Also at the meeting, the district recognized its eight "Twenty Under 20" honorees from Warren G. Harding High School. These students were celebrated for their leadership, academic excellence and dedication to their communities. They will be honored at a banquet tonight at DiVieste's Banquet Center. The program is sponsored by the Tribune Chronicle, Akron Children's Mahoning Valley and AVI Foodsystems.
Harding has the most students in this year's Twenty Under 20 class. They are: Sophomores Samantha Barkley and Jane Faulk, and seniors Sophie Gardner, Sarah Herko, Yurielis Navarro Jimenez, Monica Ruckman, Courtney Wilcox and Sonia Pitts.
In other business, the board:
Set the organizational meeting for Jan. 7 at the board office. Starting in January, board meetings will rotate through the district's Pre-K through 8 buildings, with visits planned for January, February, March and April, showcasing progress and initiatives across the district.
Approved the alternative tax budget, which is due to the Trumbull County Budget Commission by Jan. 15. This budget outlines property tax revenue estimates and funding plans for the fiscal years spanning July 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2026.