Larry D. Silver Career & Technical Education Center

Fredericksburg City Public Schools is working to expand career and technical education opportunities through the development of the Larry D. Silver Career and Technical Education Center at James Monroe High School. The project is intended to provide additional space, equipment, and programming that prepare students for college, careers and the changing needs of the regional workforce.

The center is named in recognition of Larry D. Silver and a $1 million commitment from the Silver Foundation, Inc. This significant contribution will support the expansion and enhancement of career and technical education in Fredericksburg City Public Schools.

The Silver Foundation’s Commitment

In February 2025, the Silver Foundation, Fredericksburg Education Foundation and Fredericksburg City School Board entered into an agreement establishing the foundation’s commitment of $1 million, provided through annual contributions of $100,000 over 10 years.

The Fredericksburg Education Foundation will hold and administer the funds for the expansion of the CTE center and the continued growth and improvement of career and technical education programs. In recognition of this commitment, the expanded center will bear the name of Larry D. Silver.

About the Project

Plans for the Larry D. Silver Career and Technical Education Center include renovating and expanding existing facilities at James Monroe High School. The project is designed to create modern, flexible learning environments where students can develop practical skills, explore career options, and work toward industry-recognized certifications and credentials.

FCPS is exploring expanded programming in four primary areas:

• Building trades and industrial programs
• Hospitality and tourism
• Medical and health sciences
• Technology

Potential offerings include culinary arts, construction and building trades, health sciences, cybersecurity, robotics, software development, and other programs aligned with student interests and regional workforce needs.

Building Tomorrow’s Workforce

The project will support a division-wide approach to career exploration and preparation. Students may begin exploring career fields in middle school, continue into specialized high school coursework and participate in internships, job shadowing, clinical experiences, apprenticeships and other high-quality work-based learning opportunities.

By expanding access to career and technical education, FCPS aims to help students graduate with the knowledge, experience and credentials needed to pursue employment, apprenticeships, technical training or higher education.

Planning and Partnerships

The development of the center is a long-term initiative involving FCPS, the Silver Foundation, the Fredericksburg Education Foundation and community, higher-education and workforce partners. Planning is ongoing, and the project’s scope, timeline and funding strategy will continue to be refined as the division advances the work.