CLINTON TONWSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County officials, school leaders and community members gathered Tuesday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the county’s first full-time vocational high school.
The 36,000-square-foot facility, located on the campus of North Hunterdon High School, represents what officials called a major investment in the county’s workforce, economy and future.
“Today marks a milestone for our community, our students, and our workforce,” Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren said. “This school is more than a building; it’s a gateway to opportunity for our students and significant advancement for the economic future of Hunterdon County. Vocational education offers students practical knowledge and skills that allow them to step directly into meaningful, well-paying careers. This school ensures that students can acquire the training they need to thrive in today’s competitive economy — right here at home.”
The school will initially offer six career and technical education programs: Culinary Arts & Hospitality, Electrical Technology, Welding Technology, Diesel & Power Sports Technology, HVAC/Plumbing Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing & Aeronautical Sciences.
The project was developed through a partnership between the Hunterdon County Vocational School District and North Hunterdon High School. Nearly 75% of funding came from the state’s Securing Our Children’s Future Bond Act, while the county provided the remaining costs without issuing debt.
Commissioners Jeff Kuhl, Susan J. Soloway and Zachary T. Rich joined Van Doren at the ceremony, along with Sheriff Fred Brown. Officials credited Rich, the Board’s liaison to Polytech, for helping guide the project with his construction background.
“This campus stands today because of the collective efforts of so many people — leaders, educators, parents, community members, and industry partners. Together, we created something extraordinary, and just in time to welcome our very first class of full-time students,” said Dr. Todd Bonsall, Superintendent of HCVSD. “This building is more than bricks and mortar. It represents the heart and soul of everyone that had a hand in its development. It represents opportunity, growth, and the future of career and technical education in Hunterdon County. It represents the power of collaboration and the belief that when we invest in our students, we invest in the future of our community.”
Van Doren closed the event by emphasizing the long-term benefits of the new school.
“Our students now have the opportunity to receive a world-class education in a state-of-the-art facility, an education that prepares them for good paying jobs in high demand industries, without the burden of tens of thousands of dollars in debt,” he said. “We look forward to many years of success and achievement for our students, our school, and our community.”
