After nearly a decade expanding and strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities across Canyons School District, Patricia “Patti” Larkin has been selected as the District’s new CTE Director.
Honoring a predecessor's legacy
Larkin succeeds longtime CTE Director Janet Goble who died this year following a valiant battle with cancer. She is committed to building upon Goble’s legacy and continuing to advance high-quality career-connected learning opportunities for students.
“What I admire most about Janet’s leadership is her unwavering advocacy for career-focused learning and her belief that every student has unique talents and potential,” Larkin said. “I am honored to continue that work by expanding hands-on learning opportunities that help students explore career interests, discover their strengths, and prepare for successful futures.”
Larkin's professional background and expertise
A veteran educator with nearly 20 years of experience in CTE, Larkin currently serves as Canyons District’s CTE Specialist, a position she has held since 2017. In that role, she has led districtwide CTE initiatives and supported curriculum development and professional learning for educators both within Canyons and across Utah. She has also built strong partnerships with business and industry leaders to expand internships, work-based learning experiences, mentorships, and other career opportunities for students.
Early teaching career and experience
Before joining the District office, Larkin taught technology and engineering courses at both Albion Middle School and Indian Hills Middle School. Throughout her career, she has supported students beyond the classroom, coaching cross-country and track teams, and serving as an advisor and mentor.
Vision for student hands-on learning
Born and raised in upstate New York, began her career in education teaching technology and engineering courses for Hamburg Central School District.
“Relevant hands-on learning should not begin when students reach high school,” said Larkin who believes in exposing students early in elementary school and building upon these experiences throughout their educational careers. “The Canyons Innovation Center will serve as the capstone to these carefully aligned experiences. Our goal is for every student to arrive at the Innovation Center with a sense of purpose, an understanding of their interests, and a pathway to college, a career, or both.”
Educational credentials and academic background
Larkin holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in technology from State University of New York at Buffalo State. She earned her administrative license at Southern Utah University.
Personal life and community interests
Outside of work, Larkin enjoys spending time with her husband, Brian, and their two children. Whether attending her children's activities, exploring Utah's outdoors with their dogs, Barley and Oreo, or cheering on the Buffalo Bills, she values the time spent with family and community.
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