Career and technical education (CTE) satellite programs are transforming the high school experience, giving students real-world skills, early exposure to potential careers, and the freedom to explore what excites them in a low-pressure environment, all while on their high school campus. For Queen Creek High School alumna Alicia Kalafus, the CTE satellite program was more than just a class; it was a launchpad to a fulfilling career.
Kalafus discovered her love for film and digital photography almost by accident. While participating in a sports broadcast during her sophomore year, she had her first opportunity to work behind the camera. “I went behind the camera and I just fell in love with it. And the next year, my sophomore year, I told my counselor I wanted to join film, and the film teacher was absolutely stoked to have me join the team,” Kalafus shared.
Before stepping into the world of visual arts, Kalafus had been involved in HOSA–Future Health Professionals. While she respected the program and the valuable experiences it offered, she realized her passion lay elsewhere.
“It ended up being something I’ve made a whole career out of. And maybe I would have liked being a nurse. But without CTE, I would never have figured that out otherwise,” she said.
That flexibility is one of the most valuable aspects of the CTE Satellite program. Students can test out different industries and career paths through hands-on, skills-based learning, often before they’ve even finished high school, all while on their high school campus. For Kalafus, the experience was eye-opening.
“When you actually are doing it, and you can put that on your resume that you ran a live stream or that you did editing, that gives you more than what other people coming out of high school may have to get a job or go to college.”
Through the program, she also earned industry certifications, including Adobe software and camera operation credentials, giving her a competitive edge as she entered the workforce.
Today, Kalafus works as a freelance video engineer, traveling across the country for live event productions. She credits her success to the foundation built through Queen Creek Unified School District’s CTE satellite program. “I choose QCUSD because you’re not going to get the same passion from teachers that you’re going to get anywhere else. My teachers really pushed me to excel in this program, especially with hands-on learning.”
To students still searching for their path, Kalafus offers this advice: “CTE is really important, especially for kids like me who didn’t know that this was an option. And now I can’t imagine life without video, without editing, without doing what I’m doing. It’s something I’m truly passionate about.”
Kalafus’ story is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of the CTE Satellite programs. By equipping students with tangible skills, real-world experiences, easy access to courses on campus, and career clarity, these courses don’t just prepare students for life after high school; they help them find their place in it.
Is your student interested in CTE classes? Enroll today or talk to a school guidance counselor to help find your student’s passion.