FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 11, 2024
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces Oklahoma Director of Instructional Services at Northeast Tech as the 2025 National Winner
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced April Blackwell, Director of Instructional Services at Northeast Tech in Pryor, OK, as the 2025 ACTE Teacher Educator of the Year. This award recognizes teacher educators who have demonstrated innovation in teacher education, leadership in improving CTE, and commitment to preparing teachers to deliver high quality CTE programs.
April Blackwell, an integral member of the Northeast Tech team since 2011, has been recognized nationally for her exceptional contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE). As the district’s first-ever Instructional Services Director, a role she has held since 2019, April has built the department from the ground up, establishing a robust support system that now includes instructional coordinators on each campus to serve the entire district effectively.
With a career spanning over a decade in CTE, April’s diverse experiences as a visual communications instructor, technology trainer, and business development consultant have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of all facets of CTE. Her leadership is characterized by her unwavering dedication to Northeast Tech’s mission of “Preparing Individuals for Successful Careers.” She embodies this mission daily, fostering a culture of growth and leadership development for her staff, instructors, and students alike.
April’s approach to leadership is driven by her servant’s heart and passion for lifelong learning. She leads with vision, empathy, and an unrelenting focus on excellence, constantly modeling the teaching cycle through preparation, training, assessment, reflection, and adjustment.
This prestigious national recognition celebrates April’s extraordinary impact on CTE, her district, and the broader community. Her commitment to empowering others and advancing the CTE advantage continues to inspire all those fortunate enough to work with her.
Blackwell was one of four finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.
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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.
