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CTE maybe another one of those acronym or jumble of letters meant to confuse those not in the know and make others seem superior in their knowledge. But ask students at Kennedale Junior High School last spring or their parent/guardian and they know – Career and Technology Education. {{more: continue …}}
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The future high schoolers at KJHS were ask to map out their high school career in ways former generation never did.
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Public education has its ebbs and flows and sometimes what was old was new again but maybe in a different guise. High schools at one time were known for their vocational programs as well as their academic programs. There were shop programs at every school and many had agri classes. However, over the years, it became a struggle for smaller schools to find funding for these classes with specialized equipment. Certified teachers became increasingly hard to find.?The new code word was ?college preparedness?. Fewer students had time to take theses courses as more requirements were added for high school graduation. The old programs were dropped one by one.?
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New age new programs, preparing for diverse careers ?
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While the new college focus worked for some, it didn?t for others. Several years back, Kennedale ISD decided to join a growing wave of schools that were providing direct and sometimes hands-on training in specific career fields. These programs could and did provide students basic certifications in chosen career fields.?These students had accomplished an important step and had something to build on post-high school.?
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Now students at Kennedale High School can chose between fields of Audio/Video Production, Business, Business/Digital Media, Computer Programing, Computer Maintenance, Education & Training, Finance, Health Science, Human Services, Professional Communications and Sport Medicine.
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But that is not all, students can also chose a S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) alternative or choose a Multidisciplinary Studies path. This one is heavy into the core courses with advanced classes in math science, English and social studies.
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Math, science, history and English are still required by all. And, the fine arts classes remain and are popular.
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According to a letter by Daniel Soliz, CTE Specialist Kennedale ISD, ?students have the opportunity to register for one of our CTE course which will introduce you to the fundamental knowledge and skills required to progress through your selected career pathway.? Soliz goes on to say that students who take the advanced classes ?will have an opportunity to enroll in a practicum course, which will provide a project-based, hands-on experience similar to an internship.? Many offer certifications that will enhance higher education applications and/or employment opportunities.?How is all this possible …?A combination of new technology, colleges (especially TCC) who are willing to work with the high school students along with teachers who have been willing to get additional training and endorsements plus an 8 period day that crambs all these offerings into the school day.
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Kennedale ISD is still hoping to find ways to add some other specialized crafts that are still in high demand such as auto/diesel mechanics and the building construction trades.
