Contributed FIRST YEAR IN THE BOOKS – Ted Gorman reflected upon his first year as superintendent at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, saying that it has been a rewarding experience and he was optimistic about the future of the district.

BLOOMINGDALE — As Ted Gorman completes his first year as superintendent of the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, he says the experience has been both rewarding and energizing.

“It has been a great first year,” Gorman said. “I have really enjoyed getting to know our students, staff, families, business partners, and community members. Jefferson County JVS is a special place, and I am proud to be part of it.”

Gorman came to the JVS after 32 years in the Steubenville City School District, including 11 years as principal of Steubenville High School. He said the transition from building-level leadership to district superintendent has expanded his focus.

“At the end of the day, it is still about people,” Gorman said. “It is about building relationships, supporting students, supporting staff, and creating a school environment where people want to be.”

He said the superintendent role requires broader, long-term planning that includes finances, facilities, staffing, programs and community partnerships.

Among the highlights of his first year, Gorman pointed to student achievement, graduation success and the expansion of career-technical programs. The district recently graduated 178 students and is preparing for an incoming class of about 250 to 260 students for the 2026-27 school year.

“We have outstanding students at the JVS,” he said. “They are learning real skills, earning credentials, and preparing themselves for careers, college, the military, apprenticeships and the workforce.”

Gorman also said the district is preparing to launch a new HVAC program next school year. To accommodate it, the heavy equipment operations program will be relocated to a new space.

“We are excited about the HVAC program,” he said. “There is a real need in our region for trained workers in HVAC and related trades.”

Other planned additions include a fire and EMS program in partnership with the Wintersville Fire Department, a new licensed practical nurse lab, upgrades to computer network technology classrooms and continued work on facility improvements across campus.

Gorman said he also hopes to break ground on a new heavy equipment building after preparations are completed.

“The new heavy equipment building is going to be a wonderful addition to our campus,” he said.

Looking ahead, Gorman said his priorities include expanding programs, strengthening business partnerships and maintaining a positive school culture.

“I want Jefferson County JVS to be a place where students want to come every day,” he said. “If we take care of our people and continue to build strong programs, our students will benefit.”