CTE- Ebook

Building a CTE Program’s Curriculum CTE programs can provide tremendous benefits when set up correctly. When you’re wondering how to build a CTE program, you want to start with your end goal in mind. Perhaps you want to offer students more options to lower dropout rates, use an interdisciplinary approach to improve student achievement in core classes, or provide electives that help students become college and career ready. Knowing your end goal will help you determine which courses to offer, how to staff them, ways to provide PD opportunities, find funding for the program, and plan for future assessments. What are the Characteristics of CTE Curriculum? Regardless of your end goal, all successful programs will have similar characteristics of the CTE curriculum. Most notably, programs should be relevant and rigorous. Student work should be based on real-world problems in high-growth industries and offer realistic opportunities to learn common skills necessary for adulthood. Students should also feel challenged by standards-aligned academics and industry-developed skill standards to keep them engaged and excited to continue with the curriculum. What are the Basic Principles of CTE? The basic principles of CTE help ensure your program is standards-aligned and provides students with the skills they’ll need after high school. A comprehensive program should be aligned to the National Career Clusters Framework. It’s also important to connect with employers in your community and discuss the skills your students need to learn to be successful at those companies. Designing and providing high-quality, dynamic CTE programs helps ensure students are prepared to succeed in post-secondary education and the workforce. Aligning your CTE program with ever-changing labor market needs equips students with 21st-century skills for in-demand careers in high-growth industries.

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