FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces IOWA Counselor at Cedar Rapids Community School District as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Paul Hayes, K-12 School Counseling and Postsecondary Readiness Lead at Cedar Rapids Community School District in Cedar Rapids, IA as the 2025 ACTE Region III Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.
Paul is a seasoned administrator with a proven track record of leadership in the education sector. His expertise spans K-12 education, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), staff development, transformational leadership, and strategic planning. Paul holds an administrative certification from Drake University and a Master of Arts in School Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa.
In his current role, Paul collaborates with K-12 counselors, administrators, and district leaders to bring the district’s Profile of a Graduate to life. This framework aligns with Every Learner: Future Ready vision, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need for success in an ever-changing world.
Hayes is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.
###
About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.
