Home » Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center recognized by international education group

Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center recognized by international education group

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Department of Workforce Investment (DWI) within the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet (EWDC) announced that Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center in Thelma, Ky. has been named a 2018-2019 “Welcoming School” by the International Alliance for Invitational Education (IAIE).

As a part of the Welcoming Schools Initiative, IAIE recognizes schools across the nation for their efforts in nurturing a welcoming atmosphere that fosters student engagement and learning. Since 1973, the Carl D. Perkins Center has been committed to serving Kentuckians with disabilities by helping them to achieve vocational career goals.

“It is obvious from the moment one enters the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center that this school is a great place for students to learn. The school is extremely inviting. Every person was friendly, respectful and welcoming — as were the building and grounds. It is apparent that every staff person and student feel they are an important member of the Perkins Center family,” said Carlanne Pook, chair of the Welcoming Schools Committee of IAIE.

Carl D. Perkins is a vocational rehabilitation facility that enables Kentuckians with disabilities to obtain the training, education and career services necessary to become actively engaged in the workforce.

“We are honored to have been selected as a Welcoming School by the IAIE. Perkins Center staff truly believe in working together with each other and our students to promote a fulfilling life that includes employment and independence,” said Perkins Center Director Barbara Pugh.

The center provides services for individuals with disabilities such as autism spectrum disorders, traumatic brain injury, intellectual disability, deaf/hard of hearing, and physical disabilities. Students may live on campus in dormitory housing or commute to the center for classes and/or therapy.

For more information about the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center, visit https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/cdpvtc/Pages/default.aspx