W-WCHS currently has two programs which have been industry certified. Those programs are Healthcare Science and Agricultural Mechanics. Agricultural Mechanics will recertify this year. Healthcare Science will recertify during the 2009-2010 school year. Instructors in the Agriculture department are Mr. Eric Holton, Mr. Nathan Heaton, and Mr. Tony White. Mrs. Ann Harrison is the Healthcare Science instructor.

Two W-WCHS programs will seek industry certificationin the 2008-2009 school year. Those programs are Business and Computer Science and Early Childhood Education. Business and Computer Science instructors are Mrs. Amy Harkins, Mrs. Tanya Morgan, and Coach Russell Morgan. Mrs. Sheila Callaway is the Early Childhood Education instructor.

When a program becomes industry certified, it receives a "stamp of excellence", which represents the highest point of program quality. Only those programs that have successfully undergone rigorous reviews by leaders from business and industry are recognized with this distinction.

The State Department of Education is committed to the industry certificationprocess as a part of its effort to strengthen technical and academic standards for all Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs.

This formal process of certificationstrengthens all program components. Classrooms and labs are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology. CTAE and academic performance standards are aligned to national standards. In-depth, projectbased instruction occurs in all curriculum areas. Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) offer co-curricular competitive events on the local, state and national level and provide leadership development skills for personal and professional growth.

Industry certified programs not only offer outstanding opportunities to students who receive instruction through such programs; but they also offer positive benefits for schools as well as employers. The student participates in a program that has been carefully interfaced with current industry standards thus helping to increase their qualificationstoward successful employment. Schools are viewed as having exceptional programs.

Communities understand that schools that attempt industry certificationare committed to improving student preparation and ensuring that Georgia's workforce meets the demands of the 21st century. Employers in the school's service area will receive qualified students who will make productive employees. (This space paid for by the Wilkes County Board of Education.)