
A special thank you to Kristi Nortunen for all the work she does behind the scenes to support CESA12 Youth Apprenticeship and the Mellen School District.
Kristi is always willing to jump in and help support the local coordinator and make sure the program continues to run smoothly for students and employers. So much of what makes Youth Apprenticeship successful happens quietly in the background, and Kristi is someone who consistently goes the extra mile to support faculty, students and CTE opportunities.
We truly appreciate the care and dedication she brings to this work and the difference it makes for Mellen students and our YA C12 Consortium overall. Thank you, Kristi, for being such a strong partner in Youth Apprenticeship.
#CESA12YA
#YouthApprenticeship
#CTEWorks
#MellenSchoolDistrict

“A Sweet Thank You for a Behind-the-Scenes Champion of Youth Apprenticeship”
A special thank you to Kristi Nortunen for all the work she does behind the scenes to support CESA12 Youth Apprenticeship and the Mellen School District.
Kristi is always willing to jump in and help support the local coordinator and make sure the program continues to run smoothly for students and employers. So much of what makes Youth Apprenticeship successful happens quietly in the background, and Kristi is someone who consistently goes the extra mile to support faculty, students and CTE opportunities.
We truly appreciate the care and dedication she brings to this work and the difference it makes for Mellen students and our YA C12 Consortium overall. Thank you, Kristi, for being such a strong partner in Youth Apprenticeship.
#CESA12YA
#YouthApprenticeship
#CTEWorks
#MellenSchoolDistrict



Heather Pritzl was surprised with the Most Impactful Mentor Award, and it could not have gone to a more deserving leader.
Heather shared:
" I was truly surprised and honored to receive the Most Impactful Mentor Award. Being presented this award by Wyatt, such a kind and thoughtful student, made the moment even more meaningful. Thank you to the Sources of Strength leadership team and Brittany Redden for this recognition. I’m so proud to be part of a group that uplifts, supports, and makes a difference every day."
In our Youth Apprenticeship program, we witness that impact firsthand.
Heather brings her healthcare expertise, steady encouragement, and open door approach to every student she works with. She creates spaces where students feel safe, capable, and seen. That kind of mentorship shapes confidence and careers.
Her leadership in Sources of Strength and her dedication to supporting students reflect the very heart of Youth Apprenticeship: guidance, growth, and meaningful relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
Heather, thank you for the way you invest in students and strengthen our school community. We are proud to celebrate you and grateful to have you as part of our CESA 12 YA family not just during CTE Month, but every day!
#CESA12YA #YouthApprenticeship #MentorshipMatters #AshlandSchools















