First high school to complete pre-apprenticeship program before graduation

Students attended the certificate ceremony on April 10, 2025. Front row: Christine Harvey (supervisor/instructor BCCC), Riley Gulack, Jabrie Williams, Frankie Baltazar, William Thompson, Erynn Bond, Rick Moretti (instructor), Mae Fernandez (transition coordinator). Back Row: Landon Ceresini, Ethan Morales, Jonathan Rivera, Brennan Herbert, Franco Carango, Justyn Johnson.

Harry S Truman High School is proud to announce a major achievement as 11 students have officially completed the Building and Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program before graduation.

“This accomplishment is especially meaningful because we are the first high school/trade school to offer and complete this program with students prior to their graduation,” said Mae Fernandez, transition coordinator. “It sets a new benchmark for innovation in education and workforce preparation.”

Thanks to the partnership with Bucks County Community College and its In School Youth (ISY) Program, these students now have Construction Laborer Certificates of Completion, giving them a head start in the workforce.

The 10-week Pilot Program combined in-person instruction with immersive virtual reality training, offering a hands-on learning experience. Students attended classes twice a week and showed their commitment by scoring 80% or higher on all exams.

The ISY Program, which has been part of Truman’s offerings for over a decade, is funded by a government grant that supports students preparing for careers in high-demand fields like the skilled trades.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this exceptional group of students for their hard work, resilience and dedication. Their success reflects the strength of our program and the shared commitment of our educators, staff and community,” said Fernandez.