Career Focus
Career Focus
This exciting program opens the doors to the Tech Center like never before, creating an option for students who are ready to learn the very basics of being a good employee, including:
- following directions
- the importance of attendance
- completing tasks
- following safety rules
Students in this year-long program explore one of the following areas each quarter:
- Human Services (teaching, childcare, hospitality)
- Industrial Technology (automotive, manufacturing, construction)
- Business Services (marketing, retail, office services)
- General vocational skill development (work safety, work culture)
Like our Intro to Career Technical Education and traditional programs, students learn in the classroom and get hands-on experience in our labs. They also continue the development of their Educational Development Plan (EDP), post-secondary education and work goals, and any Transition Plan activities.
Students who successfully complete this program have several options for their next step.
*The Career Focus program is not a state-approved CTE program. Completion of the program counts as elective credit.
Meet our Instructors
Debra Rajaratne
Hello, and welcome! I’m a passionate educator with over 17 years of teaching experience, certified in 6–12 Social Studies, 6–12 English, CTE, Teacher Leadership, and soon, Special Education. I’ve had the privilege of teaching in a wide range of educational settings—from large urban schools in Houston, TX, to residential alternative programs like the Beaver Island Lighthouse School, to small rural districts such as Forest Area Community Schools. Today, I’m proud to be a part of Kent ISD.
My journey into education was shaped by the incredible teachers I had in my hometown high school. They saw my love of learning, my persistence through challenges, and my desire to help others—and they made me feel truly welcomed. Their impact inspired me to follow in their footsteps and create that same sense of belonging for my own students.
Teaching is also a way for me to honor my family’s history. As immigrants and members of the early American farming community, my ancestors were often denied access to education. I view my career as both a privilege and a responsibility—to make the most of the opportunities they didn’t have and to pass on the gift of learning to future generations.
I believe deeply in empowering students to become critical thinkers, passionate learners, persistent problem-solvers, and responsible, independent citizens. Whether they’re preparing for college, a career, or life beyond school, I strive to support every student in becoming the best version of themselves.
I also believe in being open and authentic—so if you’d like to know more, just ask. I’m an open book.
Teyondra Burch 
Hello, my name is Teyondra Burch and I have been in education for over 10 years. After graduating from Central Michigan University with a degree in Child Development and Sociology with a Youth Concentration in 2013, I became a reading interventionist with Americorps.
Following my experience as a reading interventionist, I became a CTES for the Child and Family care program and later became the instructor for that program after obtaining my Master's degree from Western Michigan University in Workforce Education and Development. I am currently working in the Career Focus program as the Human Services Instructor.
My favorite part of my job is meeting and building relationships with the students I come into contact with. Watching students finally get something that is new is a huge reward. I love working with children of all ages and this program allows me to help build students skills to work with others.
Outside of work I own and operate a tutoring service, Tey’s Tutor Time. I love shopping, watching football (Go Lions), and spending time with my family.
Barry Wackerle
Hello! My name is Barry Wackerle, and I am the Intro to Auto & Industrial Technology Instructor at KCTC. My passion is to help others, and my purpose in life is to teach young people so they can become successful individuals. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and feel rewarded for helping students learn.
· Drafting, Technology Education, and Wood Technology Instructor since 2006
· Carpenter
· Landscaper
· Sales Representative
· Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology Education (IX) from Central Michigan University
· Earth/Space Science endorsement (DH).
· Working on my Master's degree in Career and Technical Education through Ferris State University.
I have three children. I have a deep love for the outdoors and enjoy many outdoor activities such as power boating, hunting, fishing, cross-country motorcycle riding, and snowmobiling. I enjoy fixing my own cars and trucks, and I am very interested in performance engines of all types. My greatest joy in life is spending time with my family.
Makayla McGovern-Aikens
CTE Specialist 
I'm a recent graduate from Western Michigan University and studied Psychology and Integrative Holistic Health.
I like to explore the great outdoors, study herbalism, and practice mindfulness. I also like to run and participate in yoga.
I am eager to help students reach their goals. Go PRO!
Jenneth Wright
CTE Specialist 
This is my first year working as a CTE Specialist at KCTC. I'm enjoying getting to know the students and instructors. Everyone here has been friendly and helpful.
Since college and prior to joining KCTC I've had many different jobs including working as a secretary for Detroit-area law firms and then working in elementary schools with children impacted by autism.
In my spare time I love to read. I also sing with the Grand Rapids Women's Chorus, and in the spring you will usually be able to find me outside working in my yard.
