The EDP is a district-wide certification process which prepares school districts to adopt best practices and behaviors to support economic development, strengthen programs, and align education with key regional industries. 

State CTAE Director Dr. Barbara Wall is excited about this year’s EDP program. “The Economic Development Partnership (EDP) designation supports a school district’s ability to contribute effectively to local and regional workforce development efforts. The EDP enables school districts to align CTAE programs with the needs of the local labor market. Fostering a strong relationship between education, business and industry, and economic development stakeholders ensures we continue to offer high-quality industry relevant CTAE programs which are equitable for all students and are supportive of local talent pipeline development both now and in the future. Our team looks forward to working alongside the Liberty County School System on its journey to achieve the EDP.”

Dr. Franklin Perry, Superintendent of Schools in Liberty County said, “I am very excited our school system was selected to be in the initial cohort of school systems for the 2021-2022 Economic Development Partnership Designation program. Special thanks to our CTAE Director, Sonja Duncan, and Liberty College and Career Academy CEO, Karisa Young, as well as our local business and industry partners for their outstanding leadership and dedication. This recognition is another example of “Excellence in Everything.”

To achieve the EDP designation, districts must meet required elements which include a focus on business and industry partnerships, strength of local CTAE program offerings, and the school district’s economic development related activities. Districts who earn the EDP designation for 2021-2022 will be announced in July 2022. For more information, contact Sonja Duncan, Executive Director of Special Programs, at (912) 876-4957 or by email at sduncan@liberty.k12.ga.us.