Matt Schilit

Matt Schilit is a longtime school administrator, having served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal.  In his current position with the Allendale County School District in South Carolina, Matt Schilit supervises all data, evaluation and testing. Since testing is an integral part of a school’s funding, it is important for school systems to find leaders such at Matt Schilit with extensive experience in the classroom environment. Here Matt Schilit discusses CATE, the Career and Technology Education initiative mandated by the South Carolina Department of Education.

Presentation Solutions: Matt Schilit, what is CATE?

Matt Schilit:  According to the Department of Education website, “the mission of the Office of Career and Technology Education is to provide leadership and services to districts and schools supporting grade-level, standards-based curricula through the integration of academic and career and technical instruction for students in grades seven through twelve.”  It is grounded in a desire to prepare students for 21st century technology careers as well as give them a broad-based education.

Presentation Solutions: Matt Schilit, what changes does this bring to a school district?

Matt Schilit:  In addition to traditional academic subjects, schools must offer courses in engineering, auto mechanics, graphic design, cosmetology, horticulture, health science, welding, culinary arts and more.

Presentation Solutions: Matt Schilit, how does this affect an average high school?

Matt Schilit:  In times past, many school districts had vocational/technical high schools where some students would choose to leave the main school and pursue career-oriented education.  Now, all high schools should be integrating this kind of practical instruction into their programs.  Every district truly needs to meet the needs of all of their students by offering opportunities for students to have first-hand experiences in a variety of career-related courses and programs.

Presentation Solutions: Matt Schilit, is there any help for students in choosing which path to take?

Matt Schilit:  Yes.  State-approved career and technology assessments measure a student’s technical skill achievement once they complete four or more units in a CATE program. The identified assessments meet federal accountability statutory requirements and are designed to provide instructional and career guidance.

Matt Schilit holds a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina.  Matt Schilit is also an amateur competitive bodybuilder.