North Springs High School Names Justin Buchanan as 2026 CTAE Student of the Year

North Springs High School named Justin Buchanan as its 2026 Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Student of the Year. A dedicated Allied Healthcare student, Justin distinguished himself through academic achievement, leadership, and a clear commitment to serving others.

Justin credits North Springs’ CTAE program with helping him discover his direction and long-term goals. “The CTAE program gave me the chance to explore my interests and eventually find my passion,” he said. “Through my Healthcare classes, participating in blood drives, and attending HOSA conferences, I was able to help a lot of people and became exposed to new things.”

These experiences ultimately inspired Justin to plan to pursue a career in biomedical engineering.

In addition to completing two CTAE pathways in Allied Healthcare and Entrepreneurship, Justin benefitted from a Work-Based Learning internship with Fulton County Schools’ IT Department. He also developed his skills and leadership abilities via active roles in two Career and Technical Student Organizations, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and the Technology Student Association.

Justin attributes much of his growth to the mentorship and opportunities provided by North Springs educators, such as Dr. Frances Close and Ms. Paulette Diener, who teach the Allied Health classes. In addition, Justin notes that the leadership and management skills he gained in Mr. Walter Vaughn’s Entrepreneurship pathway helped him excel as president of the Coding Club and as captain of the wrestling team.

“Justin represents the very best of what CTAE programs are designed to achieve,” said Dr. Brian R. Patterson, CTAE Department Chair and Work-Based Learning Coordinator at North Springs High School. “He took full advantage of every opportunity available to him, from the classroom to real-world experiences, and became a thoughtful leader with a clear vision for his future. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and excited to see the impact he will make in the future.”

North Springs High School is positioned to be the only STEAM-certified high school in Fulton County Schools. Its many academic programs, including CTAE, the Accelerated Career Diploma program, as well as Math and Science and Visual and Performing Arts magnet classes, set students up for success through rigorous academic pathways, hands-on experiences, and meaningful career exploration.