Forging a Future sparks: Calvin Clemons, Jake Griggs and MSC Southeast

Winona Area Public Schools is grateful to the many sparks in our community helping drive the Forging a Future initiative to improve career and technical education (CTE) opportunities for our students. 

This month, WAPS wants to recognize and thank Minnesota State College Southeast — and in particular, the dedication of Calvin Clemons and Jake Griggs.

Both Calvin and Jake have been integral members of the Forging a Future advisory committee from the very beginning. Their steady guidance helped set WAPS on the right path to reimagining CTE offerings for Winona students.

• Calvin Clemons has been instrumental in launching Mechatronics courses at Winona Senior High School. From aligning curriculum to securing class materials and machines, his support made it possible for WAPS to offer these in-demand courses. He has also helped connect the district with local businesses, creating valuable partnerships that expand opportunities for students.
• Jake Griggs played a key role in securing the facilities needed to host a four-day training with Contextual Learning Concepts, which laid the groundwork for introducing a Geometry in Construction course at Winona Senior High School. The training brought educators from across the country to Winona, alongside WSHS teachers Jerry Benedict and Travis Steine. Jake continues to build strong community connections and is always looking for ways Southeast can contribute.

Beyond these efforts, MSC Southeast has partnered with WAPS to host open house events that highlight career pathways for students and provide training opportunities for teachers.

The Forging a Future initiative is about preparing students for success in college, careers, and life after graduation — and it would not be possible without the support of partners like Southeast.

To learn more about how Winona Area Public Schools and its community partners are working together to expand CTE opportunities, visit winonaschools.org/forging.