Quarterly Newsletter

2023-24 Quarter 2 Newsletter
December 1, 2023

Dear Parents & Guardians,

This letter is long overdue! To be able to communicate with you I plan on posting at least once a semester with updates on classroom activities, important announcements, etc.

I want to introduce myself as your child’s new teacher at Dauphin County Technical School. My name is Mr. Joshua Choate, and I come to you with a unique blend of experiences. As an Air Force veteran, I’ve learned the values of discipline, teamwork, and dedication – qualities I bring into the classroom every day. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Messiah University and have spent the last eight years immersed in the dynamic world of web development and design.

What truly excites me, however, is the transition I’ve made to education, and specifically to Dauphin County Technical School. This academic year marks the beginning of my teaching journey, and I am genuinely thrilled to be a part of this supportive community.

Since joining Dauphin County Technical School at the start of the school year, I’ve been fortunate to experience a warm welcome from both the students and the school community. The students, in particular, have been a pleasure to work with! Moreover, the unwavering support from the administration, coaching staff, and fellow teachers has made my transition seamless, allowing me to focus on what matters most – your child’s education.

At home, I am a proud husband and father of two energetic boys, aged 5 and 7. My wife has over a decade of teaching experience at the Elementary grade level and now serves as an instructional coach with Cumberland Valley School District. Her insights and wealth of knowledge make her an excellent resource for me as I embark on this new adventure in the classroom. I’ve been “bothering” her A LOT since the beginning of the school year to review teaching strategies and techniques to help ensure I’m creating a positive and nurturing environment for your child to thrive academically and personally.

Occupational Advisory Committee (OAC)

I am looking for a student and parent/guardian to join my Occupational Advisory Committee. Occupational Advisory Committee (OAC) is a vital component of our program and consists of industry professionals, students, and parents of students. The OAC meets twice per year and during these meetings members share their expertise, offer insights into current industry trends, and provide valuable feedback on the curriculum to ensure students continue one with successful careers. You can learn more here: Occupational Advisory Committee and if you are interested in joining, please let me know!

FREE College Credits

There is tech career training for high school students available via a scholarship offered by SCPa Works at Harrisburg University. In these classes, students will participate in weekly 2-hour online live instructor-led classes held after school hours. Below are links to the flyer for these classes as well as the link to learn more/apply now. I HIGHLY encourage students to enroll into these classes!

If you ever have any questions, concerns, or just want to chat about your child’s progress, please reach out. I hope each of you have a great Holiday season and enjoy the upcoming Winter Break.

Joshua Choate
Web Design & Development Instructor
Dauphin County Technical School
6001 Locust Lane | Harrisburg, PA 17109
E: jchoate@dcts.org