Dirk Goldsmith

Background

About Dirk Goldsmith

My experiences as Diector of Career and Technical Education Programs (CTE) at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and Katy ISD allow me to bring unique real world transition and career preparation perspectives to Transition and Work Based Learning programing in Katy ISD. We are excited about the opportunity to work with many nationally recognized transition leaders as we continually explore new ways to improve student experiences and career outcomes. We are especially grateful to the wider Katy community for providing so many engaging training sites for our students. With administration, CTE, core academic, and special education certifications I am singularly prepared to find creative and effective workforce training opportunities for our Students. Our programs are facilitating paid employment opportunities for more students each year and teach career skills that last a lifetime. My classroom teaching expereince was in Brenham ISD from 1998 to 2003. At Brenham I had the opportunity to work with Supt. David Yeager In support of bond proposals, media management, legislative relations, and special projects, in addition to teaching duties. Special Education students are the best employees possible for many if not most jobs in Katy. With proper training and support they perform at or above their regular education peers and have the added value of very low absenteeism. Data continues to find that special needs employees are strong team members who improve staff morale and positively impact customers and the public. It is our challenge to help find the best mix of supports as appropriate in their individual career experience. New pedagogical methods we are expanding this year include increased use of Dr. Vickie Mitchell's LifePlan and Video Modeling to improve student outcomes and skill acquisition. When we contemplate the challenges ahead I am reminded of what one of my outstanding former bosses always said,"there's nothing we do, that we can't do better!"