Granbury ISD named CTE District of Distinction

Granbury ISD is proud to announce its selection as a CTE District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT). This esteemed recognition celebrates districts across Texas that demonstrate exemplary leadership, innovation, and commitment to student success through high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.

The CTE District of Distinction program, launched by CTAT, highlights districts that excel in workforce readiness, foster innovation in CTE, and inspire others through their dedication to student achievement and community impact. Honored districts serve as models of excellence, showcasing best practices and driving progress in CTE statewide.

“This honor reflects the great work happening every day in our classrooms, labs, and career pathways across GISD,” said Superintendent Dr. Courtney Morawski. “Our CTE teachers pour their hearts into preparing students for real-world success, and our students rise to the challenge. Being named a CTE District of Distinction shows that Granbury ISD is committed to building a strong workforce, supporting local industry, and preparing our students to be future ready.”

Granbury High School’s CTE programs extend well beyond classroom instruction, giving students opportunities to develop real-world skills and compete in ten Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) at the state and national level. GISD offers courses in 12 of the 14 TEA-approved career clusters, supported by 40 CTE teachers at GHS and additional instructors across the middle schools. Participation continues to rise, with 94% of GHS students enrolled in at least one CTE course—and many taking more, averaging 1.8 courses per student. For the 2024-25 school year, students earned 591 industry-based certifications (IBCs), and 298 seniors graduated having earned at least one certification during high school.

Over the past four years, GISD’s CTE programs have experienced tremendous growth, with districtwide certifications rising from 109 in 2020–21 to 591 today. This progress underscores strong student engagement, hands-on learning, and a clear focus on college and career readiness. By expanding career pathways and providing high-quality instruction, Granbury ISD is preparing students to succeed in the workforce, postsecondary education, military service, and beyond.

“Granbury ISD’s CTE success is the result of years of collaboration with local industry, committed teachers, and students who are eager to learn,” said CTE Director Todd Gibson. “Our goal is to equip students with real-world experiences and highly marketable skills before they leave high school. This distinction from CTAT affirms that our programs are growing in the right direction and providing meaningful, career-ready opportunities for students across the district.”

About the CTE District of Distinction Program

The CTE District of Distinction program was designed to celebrate outstanding career and technical education programs across Texas. Honored districts are selected based on their ability to meet rigorous criteria that include innovative programming, industry-based certifications, alignment with workforce needs, and exceptional student outcomes.

Why This Matters

As a CTE District of Distinction, Granbury ISD is not only celebrating its own achievements but also setting a benchmark for excellence in CTE statewide. This designation opens doors to new opportunities for collaboration with educational and workforce development leaders, further advancing the district's mission of preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving economy.

About Granbury ISD CTE

Granbury ISD Career and Technical Education programs are built on a foundation of innovation, workforce alignment, and a deep commitment to student success. Granbury ISD’s CTE program continues to open doors for students by blending real-world learning with hands-on experience across high-demand career pathways. From engineering, health science, and business to agriculture, culinary arts, law enforcement, aviation and more, students gain industry-recognized certifications, earn college credit, and develop workforce-ready skills before graduation. With strong community partnerships and state-of-the-art learning environments, Granbury ISD’s CTE program equips students to pursue higher education, enter skilled trades, or walk directly into competitive careers—showcasing the district’s commitment to preparing our students to be future ready. Learn more at granburyisd.org/CTE.

For more information about the CTE District of Distinction program or to explore the application process for the 2025 award, visit CTAT's website.