In Episode 61 of The Town Square Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III returns for a record third appearance to introduce one of the most ambitious and promising initiatives Newton County Schools has ever undertaken: a Workforce Development Framework that connects students from kindergarten through graduation to the world of work. But this isn’t just about jobs—it’s about dreams, relevance, and preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world.

Following Dr. Bradley in the second half of the episode are two of the framework’s architects—Dr. Shannon Buff, Executive Director of School Leadership, and Dr. Tim Schmitt, Director of CTAE and Workforce Innovation. Together, they unpack how this framework is being woven into the DNA of Newton County Schools, in partnership with local industry, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Industrial Development Authority.

Dr. Bradley opens the episode with a simple but profound question: What does it mean for a public school system to truly prepare students for life after high school? For him, the answer lies in creating a “launchpad of opportunity”—not a one-size-fits-all pathway, but a flexible and personalized framework that gives students a head start on their future. Whether a student wants to be a welder, a nurse, an accountant, or an engineer, they should be able to start exploring those paths long before graduation.

This isn’t theoretical. The framework is already in motion. And it’s not just about workforce training—Bradley emphasizes that it’s about clarity, access, exposure, and achievement. It’s about helping students discover their gifts and guiding them toward a career that excites them.

The Workforce Development Framework is organized into three progressive stages:

• Exposure (Grades K–5):
• Young learners are introduced to careers through hands-on experiences, guest speakers, and play-based activities. Dr. Schmitt notes that kids “can’t be what they can’t see,” so schools are working to connect lessons with real-world applications. Think counting with golf balls made at Bridgestone or learning sorting using parts from a local automotive plant.
• Exploration (Grades 6–8):
• Middle schoolers begin to explore more defined career clusters. They visit local industries, attend career days, and start seeing the real-life applications of classroom content. At this stage, students are encouraged to ask, “What do I like?” and “What am I good at?”
• Experience (Grades 9–12):
• High school students can participate in CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education) pathways, dual enrollment with colleges, and work-based learning. They can graduate with industry-recognized credentials, early college credit, or even certifications that lead directly to high-wage employment.

What makes Newton County’s approach stand out is its start-early, dream-big philosophy. Instead of waiting until high school to begin thinking about careers, the system introduces students to real-life jobs starting in kindergarten. From learning soft skills like communication and teamwork to exploring emerging industries like aviation tech and biotech, students are gaining the exposure and confidence they need to make informed choices.

And this isn’t just about “alternatives” to college. As Dr. Buff explains, “This isn’t college or career—it’s college and career.” Whether a student wants to head to a university, enroll in technical school, or jump into the workforce, they’ll be ready with a plan.

To institutionalize this shift, the district is introducing a Workforce-Ready School Designation—a recognition for schools that successfully embed workforce preparation into their culture, instruction, and partnerships. The designation includes six areas:

1. Culture of Workforce Readiness
2. Business & Industry Partnerships
3. Exposure, Exploration, and Planning
4. Workforce Readiness Activities
5. Staff Professional Learning
6. Sustainability

From robotics competitions to industry field trips, from soft skill certification in 3rd grade to engineering dual enrollment in 11th, schools will be recognized for doing the deep work of preparing students for life beyond graduation.

This isn’t just talk. The framework includes clear goals and metrics—and it’s already drawing attention across the state. Georgia State Superintendent Richard Woods, Commissioner Greg Dozier of the Technical College System of Georgia, and Georgia Chamber CEO Chris Clark have all praised Newton County’s efforts.

Dr. Bradley notes that enhancing the work done in the past, the school system is now being seen as a critical partner in economic development—not just producing diplomas, but producing skilled, motivated, and competitive graduates ready for Georgia’s top industries.

The passion behind this framework is rooted in stories: the student who never thought college was possible until they passed a dual enrollment English class in their home high school… the 3rd grader who shook a visitor’s hand and proudly declared their dream to be a mechanical engineer… the senior who found their calling not in a textbook, but on a field trip to Takeda’s bioscience lab.

Dr. Buff and Dr. Schmitt share that one of their goals is to eliminate the “I don’t know” answer when students are asked what’s next. Instead, they want every student to leave Newton County Schools with a clear, confident plan—backed by real experiences, real exposure, and real opportunities.

In closing, the guests emphasize this is not a trend—it’s a transformation. And it’s being built to last. Through professional development for educators, deep integration with academic curriculum, and authentic community partnerships, the framework is designed to evolve with the needs of the modern world.

As Dr. Bradley says, “If you can create that kind of environment from kindergarten through 12th grade, you change a school system—and a community.”

Whether you’re a parent, a business leader, a nonprofit director, or a community member—there’s a place for you in this vision. Newton County Schools is actively seeking new industry partners, mentors, and career exploration opportunities for students.

If you’re interested in learning more, volunteering, or seeing the full framework document, reach out to the district office or contact the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) team.

• 📘 Full Workforce Development Framework – PDF
• 📧 Contact: Dr. Tim Schmitt or Dr. Shannon Buff via the Newton County Schools website
• 🌐 Learn more at newtoncountyschools.org
• 🧑‍🏫 For dual enrollment info, visit gptc.edu, gsu.edu, or lutherrice.edu

🎙️ This episode is made possible by our partners:

• Luther Rice College & Seminary – lutherrice.edu
• Appalachia Group Insurance – Bobby Stevens: 770-728-1880
• Main Street Land and Properties – mslap.com

🎧 Listen to Episode 61 now on:

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