Students and faculty at Rockdale ISD joined others across the nation during the month of February to celebrate national Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. This year’s theme was “Celebrate Today, Own Tomorrow.” CTE Month provides CTE programs across the country an opportunity to demonstrate how CTE educates students to be collegeand career- ready and prepares them for high-wage, high-demand career fields.
CTE programs are based on the most current industry skill standards. Students who complete CTE programs in high school gain valuable experience in the workplace and can earn industry-based certifications and licenses. Many colleges collaborate with CTE programs and award college credit to high school students. CTE programs even help college students acquire skills and knowledge needed in innovative career fields AND acquire new or advanced skills in an existing career path.
CTE courses offer rigor and relevance in a way that really connects with students. By partnering with the business community, we are investing in students’ lives with the latest technology and skills that will prepare them to become successful employees as well as future leaders.
Approximately 94% percent of high school students and 13 million postsecondary students are engaged in CTE courses in the United States. This includes students in high schools, career centers, community and technical colleges, four-year universities and technical trade schools.
At Rockdale ISD, almost every student takes at least one CTE course during high school. But it might surprise you to know that nearly 60% of Rockdale High School graduates complete a CTE Program of Study, and over 80% of all students take at least two CTE courses. Students have a variety of options in the 12 different programs of study offered.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly one-third of the fastest growing occupations will require an associate’s degree or a postsecondary technical certification. At a time when opportunity for employment is so critical, CTE programs in every community are ensuring students are adequately equipped with the necessary skills and education to successfully enter the workforce.
The student leadership organizations that correspond with these programs (FFA, SkillsUSA, HOSA) each provide a unique opportunity for students to practice their collegeand career- ready skills through in-class of out-of-class activities and programs.
CTE is a powerful motivator for Rockdale’s young people and a valuable part of the Texas economy. When students can see a pathway from classrooms to careers, they are more likely to graduate high school with the skills and experience they need to succeed and to help our businesses succeed. Visit www.rockdaleisd.net to learn more about our programs of study (About Us>Programs>Career and Technical Education).
Please contact Britina Pesak, Executive Director of College and Career Readiness at bpesak@rockdaleisd.net or 512-430-6000, ext. 1021 if you would like to find out more about any of the CTE programs available at Rockdale ISD.
- Log in or Subscribe to post comments.