ATLANTIC, IA — The Iowa Department of Education has recognized Atlantic High School’s welding program as a model for successful career and technical education in the state. The program enrolls between 40 and 50 students each semester and
prepares them for high-demand skilled trades through hands-on instruction, strong community partnerships, and direct pathways from the classroom to the workforce. Students begin by learning essential safety procedures and foundational techniques. They then advance to multiple welding methods, including stick, MIG, torch, and plasma cutting.

In collaboration with local employers such as Vermeer and Industrial Steam, the district has developed an apprenticeship model that mirrors real-world workforce needs. Students who complete the program graduate with the skills and experience necessary to enter a registered apprenticeship, with many earning their certification just months after leaving high school.

“Our welding program is a powerful example of what career and technical education can do for students,” said Eric Miller, welding instructor. “It allows students to discover their strengths, develop real-world skills, and step confidently into high-demand careers. We are proud of the partnerships that help make this possible and of the students who continue to inspire us with their success.”

Atlantic CSD’s approach aligns with the Iowa CTE framework, which emphasizes practical learning, employability skills, and clear routes into high-wage, high-skill occupations. For students seeking alternatives to traditional four-year college pathways, the program offers a meaningful, results-driven option. Program graduates continue to stay involved, returning to the welding classroom to mentor current students and even offering scholarships to those pursuing trade careers after graduation. These lasting connections help to build a strong cycle of learning, leadership, and local workforce development.

The full story is available at the Iowa Department of Education’s website, at:

https://educate.iowa.gov/headline-story/2025-11-14/atlantic-high-school-welding-program-provides-cte-golden-ticket-students

(Radio Iowa) – State officials have denied the Satanic Temple of Iowa’s request to hold a holiday party in the Iowa Capitol on December 13.

Adam Steen, a Republican candidate for governor, denied a similar request last year when he was director of the Iowa Department of Administrative Service. “No more marketing to children,” Steen said today. “No more trying to get them to create satanic symbols, sing satanic hymns, partake in satanic rituals, no more having youth involved in costume contests that depict weapons used to abuse youth. This is not religious expression. It’s not free speech. It is evil.”

Steen held a rally at the Capitol early this afternoon that was originally billed as a gathering to challenge Governor Reynolds to issue the denial. “What could have been a call for those in Iowa to stand up and fight back has turned into a celebration,” Steen said, to cheers.

Adam Steen, a Republican candidate for governor, speaks at statehouse rally on Nov. 24, 2025. (RI photo)

The Satanic Temple of Iowa is suing Steen for rejecting their party plan at the Capitol when he was director of the Department of Administrative Services. The group has said their 2024 celebration would have promoted tolerance and acceptance of diverse religious beliefs. A year before, in 2023, the group’s display in the Iowa Capitol’s rotunda was vandalized by a Mississippi man who later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to probation. Steen, as a state agency chief, had approved some holiday displays in the Capitol that year, including the Satanic Temple’s array of candles and a pagan idol.

“I did that because it was not a matter of whether or not it was harmful to minors,” Steen said today. “It was a static statue and I did not want to fight a free speech issue at that time.”

Steen has called on two other candidates for governor to join him in denouncing what the Satanic Temple had planned to do in the Capitol next month. A spokesperson for Democrat Rob Sand’s campaign was not immediately available to respond. Republican Randy Feenstra issued a written statement. “As a Christian, I’m grateful to Governor Reynolds for keeping the despicable satanic display out of the Iowa Capitol,” Feenstra said.

(Radio Iowa) – Des Moines police say a local woman faces multiple charges after she allegedly fired shots at a car containing her fiancé and an eight-year-old child. Investigators say a Des Moines man claims his fiancée used a handgun and shot at his car during a domestic dispute on Sunday night. He said he was in the front seat and his daughter was in the back seat. Officers say there was a bullet hole in the rear passenger door. No one was hurt.

Police arrested 28-year-old Lakeisha Powell after recovering what they believe was the handgun used, a shell casing and other evidence. Powell is jailed on charges including: child endangerment, domestic abuse assault with a weapon, and two counts of intimidation with a dangerous weapon.