School Overview
What makes The HILL so special?The HILL represents a new way of thinking and a promise. The vision for the hub is a place for Lexington to come together, connect, and collaborate. “Innovative Learning” is the energy that drives this initiative, bringing education in line with the changing world around us. “Leadership” at The HILL means more than just soft skills; it includes adaptability, collaboration, and resilience. The HILL will help us reimagine CTE and transform our students’ futures.
Merging the Strengths of Southside and Eastside
The HILL is more than a new building. It is a fusion of strengths, skills, resources, and a commitment to give all students a unique and rewarding learning experience. In combining Southside and Eastside Technical Centers into one central hub, The HILL aims to inspire, connect, and educate through real-world experiences and hands-on learning.
Three Pillars of Innovation
By bridging education with innovation, The Hub for Innovative Learning & Leadership equips students with hands-on learning, critical thinking, and leadership skills, empowering them to make an immediate impact in the workforce and further their education with confidence and purpose.
Intentional Integration
Our approach integrates career pathways, emerging technologies, and transferable skills to provide students with interdisciplinary, project-based learning that mirrors real-world industry practices.
Synergistic Partnerships
We cultivate dynamic industry collaborations through real-world experiences and innovative internships. Examples:
- KC7
- Valvoline Global
- Lexmark
- Kentucky Chamber Foundation (UK HealthCare, CHI Saint Joseph Health, Baptist Health, etc.)
- Gray
- The Hearing and Speech Center
- Complet3D
Research & Development
The HILL fosters a culture of curiosity and innovation where students actively experiment, prototype, and refine ideas alongside industry experts, creating immediate value in real-world applications.
Addressing Workforce Trends in a Changing Landscape
The HILL is at the forefront of education, tackling the challenges and opportunities brought by changes in the workforce. As we adapt to new trends and the growing need for skills, The HILL is strategically positioned to meet the demands of families, students, and employers by offering a relevant and life-changing education.
Pathways to Careers
Success at The HILL comes from combining academics with hands-on learning through a diverse and challenging curriculum. Students can explore their passions and skills through various career pathways that prepare them to succeed professionally. Options include Law & Public Safety, Fire Science/Fire Fighting, Transportation Technology, Media Arts & Technology, Construction, Electrical (high voltage), Culinary Arts, Health Sciences, and more.
Reimagining Career & Technical Education
The numbers show that students in programs like those at The HILL are more likely to enroll in college, secure employment, and earn higher incomes. CTE provides them with a clear sense of purpose and direction by focusing on the transferable skills needed in the workforce. The HILL takes this philosophy further -- offering top-notch equipment and modern programs that match the needs of local jobs and industries.
A Collaborative Approach
Recognizing the importance of strong business partnerships, The HILL changes how schools, employers, and community partners work together. Employers contribute to the curriculum through collaboration on experiential learning and defining career paths. The success of The HILL relies on building strong connections with businesses and the Lexington community.