EAST ST. LOUIS – East St. Louis School District 189 marked a major milestone in student opportunity and workforce development with the groundbreaking of its $17.2 million Career and Technical Education (CTE) facility expansion at East St. Louis Senior High School. The project, made possible through a $17 million state grant secured by the leadership of Senator Chris Belt, represents a transformative investment in career pathways and the future of East St. Louis students.
“Workforce development starts in our schools, and East St. Louis is already doing the work through strong Career and Technical Education programs,” noted Senator Chris Belt. “This investment expands opportunities for students to gain the skills and resources needed for success in today’s economy.”
“This expansion is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Superintendent Arthur R. Culver. “Our students thrive in Career and Technical Education, and they deserve facilities and resources that prepare them for real success. By providing hands-on learning and meaningful career pathways, we’re giving every student the opportunity to see a future for themselves — and achieve it.”
Backed by $17 million from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the project is designed to align with regional labor market needs and equip students with in-demand skills. Senator Belt continued, “I was proud to help secure this funding because it delivers real impact for students, families, and our local economy. Strong schools and strong workforce pathways go hand in hand.”
Board President Timothy Lockett added, “Through the expansion and modernization of our CTE facilities, School District 189 is equipping students with the credentials, experiences, and pathways they need for success — through industry certifications, college credit, internships and even apprenticeships. At the same time, this work also plays a vital role in advancing long-term economic growth across East St. Louis.”
A groundbreaking ceremony, held on March 23, 2026, brought together higher education, community and employer partners along with leaders and students to celebrate this important investment. The event highlighted student voice, featuring remarks from current students and alumni who shared how CTE programs have shaped their educational journeys. The celebration also included performances by the Flyers Cheer Team and the East St. Louis Senior High School drumline, exhibiting the talent and pride of the district’s student body. Refreshments were provided and served by CTE Culinary students, showcasing their skills and professionalism.
For the Class of 2025, students enrolled in CTE programs reached a remarkable milestone: a 100 percent four-year graduation rate. Every student crossed the stage — a testament to the power of hands-on learning and meaningful career pathways that engage students and connect their education to real-world opportunities.
The expanded CTE facility will add approximately 32,500 square feet and include modern classrooms, labs, and specialized instructional spaces supporting programs such as:
· Architecture and Construction Pathway, including Electrical and HVAC/Refrigeration programs with three classrooms and two state-of-the-art workshop spaces
· Manufacturing and Pre-Engineering Pathway, featuring Machine Shop and Machine Tool Technology programs with two classrooms and two state-of-the-art workshop spaces
· Welding Pathway, including a classroom and welding facility with 20 workstations
· Audio Visual, featuring a studio, podcast, music, and control rooms
· Automotive Technology, with a dedicated classroom and six-bay automotive repair facility
· Two administrative office spaces
CTE programs at East St. Louis Senior High are organized around key Industry Career Clusters, including Audio Visual, Automotive Technology, Business Education, Electrical Trades, Culinary Arts, Health Science (including Certified Nursing Assistant), Education, Cosmetology and Barbering, Construction, and Welding. These programs are designed to prepare students with technical competencies, foundational academic knowledge, and real-world employability skills for immediate entry into the workforce or continued education.
“This expansion builds on our existing, well-aligned CTE programming, strengthening connections to workforce needs and broadening meaningful career opportunities for our students,” said CTE Director Dekiethrich Lockett.
On behalf of their students, staff, and administration, the East St. Louis School District expressed its appreciation to those that helped make the project possible.
“We are grateful to Senator Chris Belt for his leadership in securing this critical investment and for the confidence placed in our district and community,” said Culver. “We take seriously our responsibility to be strong stewards of these resources and look forward to the lasting impact this project will have on our students and the future workforce of East St. Louis.”
The East St. Louis School District also acknowledged the talented partners who are making this expansion possible, including Incite Design Studio (Project Architect), ASDG (Structural Engineer), Civil Design, Inc. (Civil Engineer), ECS (MEP Engineers), SWT Design (Landscape Engineer), and Holland Construction Services (Construction Manager).
About East St. Louis School District 189: East St. Louis School District 189 is dedicated to providing rigorous, high-quality education, resources, and experiences that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success. By emphasizing hands-on learning, industry-aligned pathways, and meaningful student engagement, the district continues to create opportunities that foster academic achievement, workforce readiness, and community growth.
For more information, visit www.estl189.com. Follow more great stories @estl189 on Facebook and Twitter.
