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Career and Technical Education
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Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs prepare students for more than a good-paying job. It is the beginning of a career path.
Today's workers are lifelong learners, and the reality is that "cutting-edge skills" aren't cutting edge for long. Today's workers need access to formal and informal training opportunities to remain competitive. CTE programs are the solution for securing this training.
To learn more about CTE offerings at your school and in District 60 as a whole, contact your school counseling office, consult your school's course description guides, or check out answers to frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions about CTE
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How much do CTE programs cost?
Typically, high school students do not pay CTE tuition (although some programs may have fees for materials).
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What are some examples of technical skills taught in CTE programs?
CTE teaching is hands-on teaching.
For example, students in medical assisting programs first learn medical terminology and how to calculate drug dosages.
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How is a CTE class different from traditional classes?
CTE training approximates real-life workplace environments and experiences.
If a student is training to become an engineer, he or she will use the same computer software that current professionals use. If a student is pursuing a business pathway, he or she would use the same online accounting applications as a working professional. If a student is in a construction pathway, he or she would learn how to design and build structures.
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Should CTE start in high school? Or is it better to wait until after graduation?
Start now...don't wait! CTE programs offered in high school provide a valuable leg up for the tradespeople of tomorrow.
There are a few advantages to starting CTE in high school. For one thing, high school students don't pay CTE tuition. Additionally, taking CTE classes in high school is a great way to explore different career paths.
Enrolling in CTE classes in high school provides an invaluable chance to learn skills that will help both in college and in a career.
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Is CTE an option for college-bound students?
Absolutely. CTE can provide all students with a foundation of academic knowledge and essential technical skills.
CTE courses and programs introduce students to a variety career options, including those that require a 4-year college education, such as:
- Business
- Economics & Finance
- Family & Consumer Sciences
- Health Science
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Technology & Engineering
- Construction & Architecture