SOLEDAD — California School Boards Association (CSBA) has announced that the Soledad Unified School District was selected as a 2025 Golden Bell Award recipient in recognition of its Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways Program.
The CSBA Golden Bell Awards, now in their 46th year, celebrate outstanding programs across California that improve student achievement and promote innovation in public education.
Soledad’s CTE Pathways Program was recognized for providing equitable access to high-quality, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for college, career and life.
“Soledad Unified’s Career Technical Education program connects our students to meaningful opportunities in high-demand career fields while building skills that last a lifetime,” said Superintendent Randy Bangs. “This recognition is a reflection of the dedication of our teachers, administrators and community partners who make these programs thrive.”
The Soledad CTE program includes 34 A-G approved courses and 12 career pathways, offering instruction in such fields as agriculture, health science, education, culinary arts, naval science and computer science.
Students participate in dual enrollment courses through partnerships with Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College, earn industry-recognized certifications and gain real-world experience through internships and work-based learning opportunities.
In 2024 alone, Soledad High School students earned 381 certifications, completed 182 work-based learning experiences and received 90 Career and Technical Student Organization awards. Programs such as Future Teachers of Soledad, FFA, SkillsUSA and NJROTC demonstrate the district’s commitment to developing both workforce and leadership skills among students.
The Golden Bell Award also highlights the strong leadership and support of the Soledad Unified School District Board of Trustees, which has prioritized college and career readiness through its Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) and ongoing investment in CTE infrastructure, staffing and partnerships.
Soledad Unified representatives will be honored at the CSBA Golden Bell Awards ceremony on Dec. 3 at the Hyatt Regency in Sacramento.
