Governor Spanberger Highlights Record Investments in Education & Career Development in Roanoke Region

RICHMOND, VA - Governor Abigail Spanberger earlier this week met Virginia students, heard from teachers and administrators, and highlighted record investments the Commonwealth has made in education and career development programs.

In Roanoke, the Governor visited the Roanoke County Public Schools Career and Technology Center - a new workforce development facility opening in January 2027 that will train local students in more than 20 different career fields. At Eastern Montgomery Elementary School, the Governor greeted students and teachers during back-to-school season and celebrated the historic new investments Virginia is making in public education.

Earlier this year, Governor Spanberger signed Virginia's bipartisan biennial budget, which includes $2 billion in new education funding - the largest investment in public education in Virginia history. The budget also includes a 4 percent raise for teachers and support staff and allocates $519 million in grants to fund school construction - ensuring Virginia schools are a safe and modernized place for children to learn.

"Virginia's schools are vital to the growth of our children and setting them up for success in their future careers," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "As Governor, I am working to support students, teachers, and parents as we work to strengthen schools across every corner of the Commonwealth and at all levels of education - including career and technical education programs. Students should have the opportunity to pursue the path that is right for them - whether that means continuing their education or stepping directly into a great career."

Governor Spanberger continued, "As families begin a new school year this fall, I am proud that we have made historic, record-breaking investments in education in this year's budget. Because building a stronger future for our next generation is a priority of my Administration."

"Career and technical education is a critical part of preparing our students to be Opportunity Ready. Our business and industry partners are counting on us to help develop the skilled workforce of tomorrow, and that requires providing students with industry-standard facilities, equipment, and real-world learning experiences," said Roanoke County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jamie Soltis. "I'm grateful the Governor took the time to visit our new CTE center, see firsthand the outstanding programs and opportunities available to our students, and hear directly from industry leaders about how essential CTE is to building a strong workforce and supporting the long-term success of our regional economy."

"Our new CTE center is a focal point for student opportunity and workforce development in the region. Effective career and technical education requires partnership with business and industry," said Roanoke County Public Schools Director of Career and Technical Education Jason Suhr. "We are proud to have a strong relationship with business leaders in many different areas of industry, from manufacturing and construction to healthcare and mass communications. I'm glad the Governor was able to see first-hand the many opportunities we provide our students and, more importantly, the success of our graduates in meeting in-demand workforce needs in the region."

Governor Spanberger has remained a strong supporter of education since taking office in January. The Governor signed dozens of bills into law - many of which are already in effect - to strengthen schools, support teachers who help kids reach their full potential, and keep kids safe and healthy both in and out of the classroom.

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