February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, and at Forest Meadow Middle School, we are doing more than just discussing the future—we are giving our students the keys to unlock it.
CTE is about bridging the gap between middle school and the “real world.” It provides students with the technical skills and academic foundation needed to succeed in high-demand careers. This month, we are shining a spotlight on the incredible pathways available right here on our campus.
Exploration Today, Excellence Tomorrow
We believe that the best way to choose a path is to walk it. That’s why we offer our College and Career Exploration course. This one-semester “taster” class allows students to sample various options available at the high school level. It’s a low-stakes, high-reward way for students to discover what sparks their interest before they even step foot on a high school campus.
Our Specialized Pathways
For students ready to dive deeper, Forest Meadow offers several “Principles” courses designed to provide a head start on professional certifications and high school credits:
- Principles of Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications: From digital storytelling to multimedia production, students learn how to turn their creativity into a professional craft.
- Principles of Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security: This course introduces students to the legal system and the vital roles that keep our communities safe and just.
- Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance: Our future entrepreneurs and CEOs learn the basics of the global economy, personal finance, and how to build a brand.
- Principles of Education and Training: Designed for the next generation of mentors and teachers, this pathway explores the science of learning and the art of leadership.
The P-TECH Advantage: Degrees for Free
What makes our Business and Education pathways truly unique is the connection to our P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) program.
Students who pursue Principles of Business or Principles of Education have the incredible opportunity to stay on a track that leads to graduating high school with both a diploma and an Associate Degree. This program allows students to earn college credit at no cost, giving them a massive head start on their careers or further university studies.
Why It Matters
CTE isn’t just about jobs; it’s about engagement. Research shows that students involved in CTE courses are more likely to graduate and more likely to find relevance in their core academic subjects. Whether they plan to head straight to a four-year university or enter a specialized trade, our Chargers are leaving Forest Meadow with a clearer vision of their personal “North Star.”
“The goal of CTE at Forest Meadow is to turn ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ from a scary question into an exciting plan.”
