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Career Technical Education (CTE)

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Career & Technical Education (CTE) at Charter Oak Unified

 

Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs at Charter Oak Unified School District provide students with real-world technical knowledge that prepares them for success in both college and careers. These programs give students the opportunity to explore job interests, develop personal passions, and gain practical experience in fields connected to today’s and tomorrow’s workforce needs.

 

While in high school, students can acquire free technical training in a career field of interest while also building transferable skills, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, that make them employable across a wide range of professions. CTE connects classroom learning to real-world application, ensuring that every student leaves high school better prepared for future opportunities.

 

Benefits of CTE

  • Higher Engagement & Graduation Rates: CTE participation is linked to increased student engagement and lower dropout rates. Nationally, the graduation rate for CTE concentrators—students who complete multiple courses within one program of study—is 94%, compared to the overall average of 85%.
  • College & Career Readiness: CTE students graduate ready for postsecondary education and careers. Nationwide, 94% of CTE students graduate high school, with most enrolling directly in college.
  • Meeting Workforce Demands: CTE helps address the nation’s projected shortage of 6.5 million skilled workers in industries such as infrastructure, healthcare, and manufacturing.

 

“A–G” Approved CTE Courses

All Charter Oak Unified CTE courses are approved to satisfy the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) “A–G” college entrance requirements.

These requirements ensure that students:

  • Are prepared to fully engage in first-year coursework across a variety of disciplines.
  • Possess the academic foundation needed for majors and programs at UC and CSU.
  • Have developed a breadth of knowledge that supports advanced study.
  • Have attained essential critical thinking, communication, and study skills.

 

By completing A–G approved CTE courses, Charter Oak students not only gain valuable career-oriented training but also strengthen their eligibility for admission to California’s top universities.

 

Programs of Study 

 

Athletic Training/Sports Medicine Pathway

Charter Oak Unified School District, in partnership with Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC), offers a dual enrollment pathway in sports medicine. This two-year program allows students to earn up to 12 college units through Mt. SAC’s Kinesiology Department while completing high school. Courses include Introduction to Care and Prevention of Activity/Sports-Related Injuries, Fitness for Living, Athletic Training Work Experience, First Aid and CPR, and Advanced First Aid/CPR/Emergency Response. Students gain classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to earn certifications such as CPR and First Aid. The program provides a structured pathway toward an associate’s degree in athletic training.

 

Business Education & Technology Academy

The Business Education & Technology Academy provides students with a foundation in business, entrepreneurship, and digital technology. Coursework includes business management, marketing, finance, and communications, along with technology skills such as productivity software, digital media, and presentation tools. Students learn to apply problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills to real-world business projects. Through articulation agreements, students can earn up to 6 college credits upon successful completion of the pathway. This program prepares students for positions in business and office settings, entrepreneurial ventures, or further study in business, finance, and related fields.

 

Culinary & Hospitality Pathway

The Culinary & Hospitality Pathway provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the culinary and hospitality industry. Over two years, students gain skills in cooking techniques, food safety, nutrition, menu planning, baking, presentation, and kitchen management. The program also explores international cuisines and restaurant operations while emphasizing teamwork, creativity, time management, and attention to detail. Students may earn industry-recognized certifications and cater events on campus to practice skills learned in class. Through articulation agreements, students can earn up to 6 college credits upon completion. This pathway prepares students for careers in culinary arts or further education and training in the field.

 

Engineering Pathway

The Engineering Pathway introduces students to key concepts and skills in the field of engineering through a two-year program. Students explore engineering design principles, robotics, electrical systems, and manufacturing processes while gaining experience with computer-aided design (CAD) modeling software. The program emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and the application of engineering concepts in hands-on projects. Through articulation agreements, students may earn up to 6 college credits upon successful completion of the pathway.