What Parents Should Know about CTE
1. Career and Technology Education (CTE) - it’s more than a name change!
Career and Technology Education (formerly vocational education) gives students a head start on college and careers in high-skill, high-wage and high-demand occupations organized in different career pathways.
2. CTE IS for the career and college bound student.
In today’s workplace, continued education and training are given. CTE programs include a sequence of career-focused high school courses taken in addition to the core academic classes of math, science, English and social studies. Students completing both the academic requirements and a CTE program have the advantage of graduating from high school better prepared for college and the workplace.
3. CTE students are able to earn college credits.
Students have an extra advantage after earning their diplomas. It’s true! CTE classes provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit early when high school and/or ROP instructors meet with Cabrillo instructors to discuss courses in similar programs. As an added bonus, nearly every CTE program connects to a similar community college program which makes it possible for students to transition from high school to college.
4. Students apply what they learn through CTE course to their academic classes.
Students can learn core subject content through CTE courses. For example, students enrolled in a construction tech course will learn algebra, geometry and even trigonometry through designing and building model homes for their class projects. The same could be applied to courses in bike repair, aquaculture, Computer Aided Design (CAD) or even medical occupations.
5. Instructors are industry professionals.
CTE teachers have worked in their fields as part of their certification. Industry advisory boards help schools design and equip learning labs. For example, Cabrillo’s Culinary Arts students work in commercial kitchens as well as get experience working in a restaurant setting. Students taking Engineering Technology courses use state-of-the-art software to hone their skills.
6. Parents and students can save money!
High school is the only time individuals can obtain education focused on career preparation without writing a tuition check! CTE students can also save money on college tuition by earning college credit through courses identified for articulated credit. Students completing CTE programs obtain knowledge and skills that can help them achieve better paying jobs while they are attending college.
7. Programs are designed for the future.
Santa Cruz County industries and businesses partner with local school districts and Cabrillo College to create programs of study that prepare students with the knowledge and skills required for current and future careers in today’s global economy. Obtaining labor market information data supports program development that strengthen partnerships between education and industry as well.
8. Internships and work-based learning opportunities provide “real world” work experiences and the prospect of developing a professional network.
CTE programs frequently include internships or work-based learning experiences which help
students develop a network of co-workers and managers who may also become valuable references. Internships, job shadowing and work-based learning activities can also be obtained through Your Future Is Our Business.
9. Leadership and interpersonal skills are expanded!
Students enrolled in CTE programs can join local chapters of national student organizations such as the FFA, an agricultural education youth organization. Participating in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) build confidence as students demonstrate their skills and knowledge.
10. To enroll your teen or to learn more about CTE in our community:
Go to the Santa Cruz County ROP website or talk to the ROP counselor at your student’s high school.