Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are increasingly incorporating digital skills training to prepare students for the modern workforce. One innovative approach that has gained traction is the use of WordPress Multisite Networks for CTE projects in school districts. This initiative not only streamlines digital content management but also offers a hands-on learning platform for students. My journey with this transformative project began in a Texas school district, addressing a critical challenge posed by the Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
The Challenge: Rogue Websites and the Need for Control
The CTO was concerned about the proliferation of rogue websites for various programs and clubs, many of which were hosted on platforms like Weebly. These sites often bypassed the district’s network filters, making it difficult to monitor, control, or ensure consistency and security. The question was clear: How could we consolidate these disparate efforts into a unified, manageable, and educative platform?
The Solution: WordPress Multisite for Educational Projects
Enter the Webbuilder solution—a WordPress multisite network tailored for the district’s needs. This network enabled classes, groups, clubs, and programs to create their own websites within a controlled environment. The beauty of this solution was twofold:
- Centralized Oversight: One admin could manage updates, core structure, and maintenance, ensuring uniformity and security across the network.
- Decentralized Creativity: Each subsite retained autonomy over its content and design, fostering creativity and ownership among participants.
A shining example of this initiative’s success was a high school news site. By granting student author access, we transformed the platform into a dynamic space for student journalism, enhancing learning opportunities and student engagement.
WordPress Multisite as a CTE Sandbox
This project underscored the potential of WordPress Multisite Networks as a CTE sandbox. Students learned to navigate a Content Management System (CMS) that’s widely used in the public and professional sectors, gaining invaluable skills in website creation, digital publishing, and project management. Moreover, this approach aligns perfectly with K12Press’s mission to promote WordPress for all educational uses.
The Benefits for CTE Students:
- Real-World Skills: Students acquire hands-on experience with WordPress, a leading CMS in the industry.
- Creative Freedom: While the core network is centrally managed, students can experiment with design and content on their subsites.
- Project Portfolio: Students can build a digital portfolio of their work, showcasing their skills to potential employers or for further educational opportunities.
AISD Webbuilder – WordPress Multisite Network created in 2017 for use on groups, clubs, school department and school program websites.
K12Press: Empowering Education Through WordPress
At K12Press, we are committed to leveraging WordPress to enhance educational experiences. Our products and tools are designed to support schools in implementing WordPress Multisite Networks, offering resources, tutorials, and support tailored to the unique needs of educational environments.
WordPress Multisite Networks offer a powerful platform for CTE programs, enabling students to learn, create, and manage digital content in a professional environment. This approach not only addresses the logistical challenges of managing school websites but also provides a meaningful, engaging learning experience for students. With K12Press, schools have a partner dedicated to unlocking the full potential of WordPress in education.
