February is Career and Technical Education Month. The Clarke County Career and Technology Center, formerly known as the Vo-Tech to many, is the place where QHS students prepare for their future through Career and Technical Programs in six areas: Law & Public Safety, Television Broadcasting Productions, Culinary Arts, Teacher Academy, Forestry, and Health Sciences.
What is Career and Technical Education? Career and Technical Education courses are designed to help train a qualified workforce for today’s competitive job market. Our research-based programs meet national and/or state accreditation standards. They also constantly evolve in response to changing workforce needs.
Our instructors are highly qualified professionals, many of whom have worked in their respective industries before coming to CCCTC. They provide our students with invaluable experiences and real-world lessons. Our small classes provide students with the opportunity for hands-on learning and exploration. Many of our courses include clinical experiences in businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities in our community.
Students have the opportunity to lead through CTE student organizations HOSA, FFA, Skills USA, ED Rising and NTHS. They can serve in local and state offices, compete at the local, state, and national levels, and earn scholarships.
Career and Technical courses prepare students to succeed in the workforce by teaching skills that are in-demand in today’s workplace. Each program has a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to succeed at the community college and university levels. Career and Technical Education gives students the opportunity to explore careers of interest, as well as their own abilities. CTE WORKS!
Myths and Facts about Career and Technical Education
MYTH: CTE is not for students who want to go to college.
FACT: CTE courses combine a high level curriculum with expert instruction to prepare students to excel in college programs.
MYTH: CTE is for kids who can’t make it in academic courses.
FACT: Our students are some of the brightest and most motivated of QHS. They excel in their courses and compete at the state and even national level. Of last year’s senior class, 9 of the TOP 10 had completed programs at the Career and Technology Center. Both Health Science and Teacher Academy are considered advanced courses and provide bonus points in students Quality Points Averages.
MYTH: CTE doesn’t fulfill graduation requirements..
FACT: CTE courses are credited and students can earn up to four ELECTIVE and/or SCIENCE credits towards graduation.
PARENTS of PANTHERS: Your 8th, 9th, and 10th grade students will be given information in February and March about the courses available to them at the CCCTC next year. Please look over the information and consider which would be a good fit for your child. If you have any questions, or would like more information, or would like to schedule a tour, contact CTE Counselor Dana Mayo at the Clarke County Career and Technology Center at 601-776-5219 or email dmayo@qsdk12.org.
