FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An agreement between Forsyth County schools and the county would contribute land and funds to create a Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education center.
The agreement is part of a collaboration between the two governments for The Gathering at South Forsyth, a $2 billion mixed-use development.
The Gathering would include 1.6 million square feet of commercial space, a 750,000-square-foot arena, community center and 450 hotel rooms. The development is working to attract an NHL team to call its arena home.
County Commissioners considered an amendment to the agreement at a Sept. 24 work session. The amendment would require the county to transfer 10 acres and $3 million to the school district for the education center.
The county would reimburse the school district for the cost of educating each student living in the development’s area as long as its bonds are outstanding. The Gathering also would allow the district to host graduation ceremonies at its arena.
Forsyth County students work with plants in a greenhouse. The Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education program offers numerous pathways giving students hands-on training for future careers.
Forsyth County Schools approved a resolution on Aug. 20 supporting the financing of the project.
Currently, there are more than 25,000 students enrolled in the district’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education program. The program aims to partner with business and industry to prepare students for future careers. When a student completes a program, they obtain industry accreditation.
The school district offers career pathways that teach students computer science, engineering, technology, financial literacy, agriculture, business management, marketing, health care, leadership, construction, audio visual skills and more.
The district has considered creating a Career, Technical and Agricultural Education center since 2021, said Michele Dugan, director of communications.
A center would ideally host from 8-10 programs and pathways, giving additional opportunities for skills-based programs.
