CTE department photo

Round Rock ISD has been named a 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT), recognizing the district’s continued innovation, dedication and excellence in advancing career and technical education.

“It is a great honor to be named a CTE District of Distinction two years in a row,” said Round Rock ISD CTE Assistant Director Peggy Mica. “It inspires us to keep learning and improving our programs for student success.”

The 2026 CTAT CTE Districts of Distinction are recognized for exceptional programs that prepare students for future workforce success through high-impact learning experiences aligned with industry demands, strong student achievement and best practices that inspire districts statewide.

“Being named a CTE District of Distinction is an acknowledgement of the diligent and innovative work of our 200 CTE teachers and staff; it acknowledges the work we do with our business partners and how they support us to make CTE courses current and an authentic reflection of the workplace,” said Mica.

The CTE District of Distinction program is a designation for school districts with robust, high-quality CTE programs that meet the needs of students, local communities and employers. Districts are selected based on innovation, alignment with workforce needs and the strength of student outcomes.

Sheri Bonds, Director of Career and Technical Education said securing this recognition in back-to-back years proves that Round Rock ISD consistently leads the way in CTE innovation.

"The District of Distinction award is the gold standard for CTE excellence. For our students and families, this honor confirms that our pathways provide a rigorous, future-ready education that goes far beyond a typical elective,” said Bonds.

Round Rock ISD offers 28 CTE pathways, including Computer Science and Health Science. Students have access to industry-based certifications, Advanced Placement and dual-credit courses, and work-based learning opportunities. One such opportunity is the P-TECH program in nursing, which allows students to earn a high school diploma, an associate degree and hands-on experience toward becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse concurrently.

For more information about the CTE District of Distinction program, visit CTAT’s website.