Career and Technical Education Month: Setting Students Up for Future Success

February marks Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a month dedicated to bringing awareness to the multitude of CTE programs offered in high schools across the nation and celebrating the role these programs play in preparing students for future careers and empowering them to achieve success in their chosen fields.

In the Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD), the commitment to CTE is evident through the wide array of programs offered at all three high school campuses. With 18 CTE programs available, students have access to a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests and develop practical skills that are in high demand in today's workforce.

QCUSD is proud of our strong connections with businesses. Our schools work closely with experts in different business and industry fields to ensure students learn the latest industry knowledge. This collaboration helps students obtain certifications, scholarships, and real-world experience before they finish high school. Last year alone, QCUSD students achieved an impressive milestone, receiving a total of 571 industry certificates - a tangible reflection of the district's commitment to preparing students for successful futures. These industry certifications support our students in being immediately employable in entry-level positions while still attending high school.

“I chose to be in the nursing services program because I found the class to be really fascinating from the description, and our professor is really intelligent in her field,” says Rachel L., a nursing services student from Crismon High School. “This program is preparing me for my future because nursing is a very secure job in my mind, and I really enjoy knowing how to take care of others in case of emergencies.”

CTE programs offer students the opportunity to participate in career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) such as Future Farmers of America (FFA), Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Through these organizations, students can showcase their skills, compete at local, state, and national levels, and network with industry professionals - a valuable experience that further enhances their readiness for the workforce.

As we celebrate Career and Technical Education Month, let us recognize the critical role CTE programs play in preparing the next generation of professionals. 

If you are interested in partnering with QCUSD to support our CTE initiatives, please visit our Community/Business Partner Information page to learn more.