East St. Louis School District breaks ground on $17.2M CTE expansion

East St. Louis School District 189 marked a major milestone in student opportunity and workforce development with the recent groundbreaking of its $17.2 million Career and Technical Education (CTE) facility expansion at East St. Louis Senior High School.

Made possible through a $17 million state grant secured through the leadership of Senator Chris Belt, the project represents a transformational investment in career pathways and the future of East St. Louis students.

“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 Superintendent Arthur R. 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.”

Expanding opportunities for students

The expansion will add approximately 32,500 square feet of modern learning space designed to support high-demand career pathways, including:

• Architecture and Construction, featuring Electrical and HVAC/Refrigeration programs
• Manufacturing and Pre-Engineering, including Machine Shop and Machine Tool Technology
• Welding, with a dedicated classroom and 20-station lab
• Audio/Visual Production, with studio, podcast, music, and control rooms
• Automotive Technology, including a six-bay automotive repair facility
• Administrative and support spaces

“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.

A celebration of community and student voice

The groundbreaking ceremony, held March 23, 2026, brought together students, alumni, community leaders, higher education partners, and employers to celebrate this important investment.

Student and alumni speakers highlighted the powerful impact of CTE programs, sharing how hands-on learning experiences have shaped their educational journeys and future goals.

Proven results, strong foundation

The district’s commitment to Career and Technical Education is already delivering measurable success.

For the Class of 2025, students enrolled in CTE programs achieved a 100 percent four-year graduation rate.

“Workforce development starts in our schools, and East St. Louis is already doing the work through strong Career and Technical Education programs,” said Senator Chris Belt. “This investment expands opportunities for students to gain the skills and resources needed for success in today’s economy.”

More than a facility

The celebration also showcased the talent and pride of East St. Louis students, with performances by the Flyer Cheer Team and the East St. Louis Senior High School drumline. Guests also enjoyed refreshments prepared and served by CTE Culinary students.

“This expansion is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Superintendent 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.”

Board of Education 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 apprenticeships. At the same time, this work also plays a vital role in advancing long-term economic growth across East St. Louis.”

Photo courtesy East St. Louis School District 189 Facebook page.