Christine Wirt

The prospect of making a difference in students’ lives played a critical role in attracting Christine Wirt to the teaching profession.

“I believe teachers can make a difference and change lives, one student at a time,” said Wirt, College and Career Counselor at Clay High School, “You have the opportunity to make the community, society and the world a better place.”

Wirt, Coordinator of Academies and CTE Pathways at Clay High School, was honored as one of Clay County’s Teachers of the Year. A graduate of Orange Park High School, Wirt joined Clay County District Schools in 1992 after earning an associate’s degree at St. Johns River State College and a bachelor’s degree in Career and Technical Education and Guidance at the University of West Florida.

“The District has been very supportive of CTE, and my success is a result of the teamwork between the administration, guidance counselors and teachers at Clay High School,” said Wirt.

The Clay County District Schools offers robust CTE programs at each Junior High and Senior High School. From Aerospace to Welding, there is an abundance of opportunities for students to discover their passion. Students can earn industry certifications in addition to their high school diploma through CTE. Wirt has helped hundreds of students identify career pathways.

“Our goal is to help students identify programs of interest, make them aware of all of the jobs available in that field and learn the skills essential for career success,” said Wirt.

She has played a vital role in the program’s success. Wirt served as the lead/school coordinator for two academies that achieved Model Career Academy status, a prestigious national distinction and mark of excellence. The academies are the Clay High School Academy of Criminal Justice, which has achieved Model Career Academy status twice, and the Fleming Island High School VyStar Academy of Business.

Business partnerships are essential to the academies’ success. More than 50 local businesses provide work-based learning experiences, internships, and scholarships. Many business leaders have helped by serving as mentors.

“Our business partners have opened up doors for our students’ success,” Wirt said.

As College and Career Coach, Wirt connects with students, discussing curriculum opportunities and creating a four-year personalized academic plan that includes earning a diploma and having a post-secondary plan in place. She encourages and inspires students to step outside of their comfort zones.

“I chose the VyStar Academy for its valuable experience and to participate in an internship at VyStar,” said senior Ryan Freeman. “My time in the academy has significantly improved my confidence and social skills.”

Currently, 91% of Clay High School’s student population are taking CTE classes and 28% of seniors in CTE have entered the workforce upon graduation.

“The three years I’ve been in the Academy of Criminal Justice have given me a better understanding of Florida laws and different career opportunities in the field of Criminal Justice,” said junior Michael Land. “The experience has helped me become a better person and better prepared for life after high school.”