For the third consecutive year, Killeen ISD has been named a Career and Technical Education (CTE) District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT), recognizing the district's continued commitment to preparing students for college, careers and the workforce through innovative programs and hands-on learning experiences.
The statewide recognition honors school districts that demonstrate excellence in career and technical education through strong student outcomes, industry-aligned programs and partnerships that connect classroom instruction with real-world opportunities.
Killeen ISD offers 33 approved programs of study across 13 career clusters, including 24 programs that provide work-based learning opportunities. As of February 2026, more than 8,800 high school students were enrolled in CTE courses districtwide, including 1,328 students at the Killeen ISD Career Center.
Student achievement continues to show measurable growth. According to the Texas Academic Performance Report, the percentage of KISD students attaining industry-based certifications increased from 18.8% in 2023-24 to 25.6% in 2024-25, a gain of 6.8 percentage points. The district's CTE completer rate also increased from 21.1% to 24.2% during the same period.
During the 2025-26 school year, 557 graduates were recognized for completing a CTE program of study and earning an industry-level certification.
“Being named a CTE District of Distinction for the third year reflects the hard work of our students, the dedication of our CTE teachers and staff, and the strong support of our community and industry partners,” said Patrice Robinson, Killeen ISD director for career and technical education. “In Killeen ISD, our students aren’t just learning about careers. They’re living it, doing it, and becoming it, and they’re graduating ready for college, careers, and the military.”
KISD students can explore careers in fields ranging from health care and law enforcement to technology, construction and digital media. Offerings include drone technology, video game design, dental assisting, emergency medical services and phlebotomy.
This school year, the district is also piloting a new law practicum at Chaparral High School, creating opportunities for students to pursue career-related credentials in partnership with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
Beyond the classroom, industry partnerships provide students with practical experience in their chosen fields. Students have participated in health care training at Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center and AdventHealth, gained experience at local veterinary clinics, worked with construction professionals and received mentorship from military and technology industry experts.
Those opportunities are producing individual success stories. Isabelle Jundi, a graphic design and illustration student at Killeen High School and the KISD Career Center, received the 2026 Career and Technical Education Award from U.S. Rep. John Carter's office. Selected from more than 500 applicants across the congressional district, Jundi was one of just seven students to receive the honor.
Killeen ISD continues to expand opportunities for students through partnerships with local employers, colleges and universities. Future priorities include increasing work-based learning experiences, expanding middle school CTE offerings and strengthening career pathways available at students' home campuses.
The CTE District of Distinction designation recognizes KISD's sustained efforts to connect education with workforce needs while helping students graduate with the knowledge, credentials and experience to pursue their next steps.