History of JRTC

Four short years before the first students entered the corridors, laboratories and shops of the Jackson River Vocational Center, in September, 1970, the efforts of a relatively small number of concerned individuals matured to involve the three area school boards.

This joint effort, considered by many to be impossible, now stands as a reality, and is a monument to the cooperative determination of the Joint Board of Control upon its inception in July,1971, the Alleghany County Board of Supervisors and School Board, the Clifton Forge City Council and School Board, the Covington City Council and School Board, and all the other groups and individuals who became involved through their support and encouragement.

This accomplishment in itself is an undeniable witness to the strong ties in the Alleghany County community. It has proven in its short life a solution available for the mutual problems and concerns of the community.

The impact of providing vocational technical education opportunities for our high school students and the adult citizens of the community is incomprehensible.  The method of providing this opportunity may very well be of greater consequence in the future of the community.

Timeline

Late 1960’s

C.E. Darnell, Superintendent of Clifton Forge City Schools, begins to develop support among local school systems for a jointly operated vocational center.

1971

The Joint Board of Control was created representing Alleghany County, Clifton Forge City, and Covington City.  C.E. Darnell became the first Administrator for the Joint Board of Control.

1974

Jackson River Vocational Center opened with students from Alleghany County High School, Clifton Forge High School, and Covington High School.

1977

C.E. Darnell ended his tenure as Administrator for the JRVC Joint Board of Control but remained actively involved with the Center until his resignation as Superintendent of Clifton Forge City Schools in 1980.

Let it be said that if one individual should be designated as having been the most influential contributor to a cause, then due to C.E. Darnell’s vision and dedication, this Center is a reality. – JRVC Joint Board of Control; June 30,1975.

Courses

In 1972 there were 9 certificate programs and 18 courses. By 1974, there were 11 certificate programs and 22 courses. The Current Curriculum (1998) offers 19 certificate programs and 57 courses.