November 2003
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DENTAL OCCUPATIONS PROGRAM RECOGNIZED AS EXEMPLARY
The Dental Occupations program at Berks Career and Technology Center was recently recognized as Pennsylvania 's exemplary program in the field of career and technical education. The award was presented to the program instructor, Mrs. Beverly Brader, by the Pennsylvania Association for Career and Technical Education (PA-ACTE) during its annual conference.
The Dental Occupations program at Berks Career and Technology Center has been preparing students for a career in the profession for the past 25 years. Students enrolled in the program learn skills in four areas: circulating assistant, dental assistant, dental laboratory technician assistant, and pre-dental hygiene. This September marked Mrs. Brader's thirteenth year as instructor of the program. She has seen the program grow from a total of nine students when she first took over the program to a current population of 30 students, which now includes adult and male students. Many of the graduates continue their education to become dental hygienists or pursue other higher-level related positions.
Advancements in dental technology and improved oral hygiene have changed the way skills and techniques are taught in the classroom. However, with the foresight of BCTC's administration and members of its Dental Occupations Occupational Advisory Committee, the program continues to excel, meeting the changes and needs of the industry. The dental lab features industry-standard equipment of the finest quality, giving the students the opportunity to learn and work on equipment that will benefit them in the dental field. The program recently incorporated a dental clinic as part of the curriculum. The clinic operates one day a week during the school year. Local dentists volunteer to work at the clinic with dental students serving as assistants. The clinical experience provides an excellent opportunity for the students to become familiar with the expectations of a dental office. It also provides a service to local community members who are given an opportunity to witness firsthand the outstanding skill and expertise demonstrated by the students.
The Pennsylvania Association for Career and Technical Education is a professional membership organization involving educators and administrators interested in promoting and improving vocational and technical education. The purpose of the organization is to provide service, leadership opportunities, and recognition to its members; and to support vocational and technical education as an integral part of the education system. It is dedicated to the advancement that prepares youth and adults for rewarding careers.
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