Career Technical Education (CTE)

What is CTE?

Career Technical Education (CTE) combines rigorous academics with real-world experiences to prepare students for both college and career success. Through CTE, students gain technical skills, practical knowledge, and hands-on experience across a range of high-demand industries. CTE programs help students explore career paths, develop critical skills like problem-solving and teamwork, and build a strong foundation for the future.

Why Start CTE in Elementary School?

Early exposure to CTE ignites curiosity, fosters a love of learning, and helps students make meaningful connections between classroom lessons and real-world applications. By starting young, students develop foundational skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. Early CTE experiences also allow children to explore different interests and passions, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and success.

CTE in elementary grades at WUSD focuses on hands-on, inquiry-based learning where students engage in projects that integrate technology, creativity, and practical skills. This approach not only builds academic knowledge but also boosts confidence and helps students envision their future potential.

WUSD CTE Offerings

At WUSD, students from elementary through high school have access to a range of CTE programs. These programs are designed to ignite curiosity, build foundational skills, and offer pathways into high school academies and regional career education opportunities.

Elementary & Middle School Programs

WUSD offers foundational CTE experiences that introduce students to key industry sectors and vary across campuses. Examples include:

• COMING FALL 2025 - Paxton/Patterson Career Exploration Labs, allowing students hands-on experiences to explore a variety of different careers.

• AVID: Advancement Via Individual Determination fosters a college and career going culture that helps students connect academic tasks to future plans through Writing, Organization, Collaboration, Inquiry, and Reading.

• Project Lead the Way (PLTW): Engages students in STEM through courses like Automation and Robotics, Design and Modeling, and Medical Detectives.

• Woodshop & Makerspace Labs: Hands-on learning environments where students explore engineering, construction, and design.

• Culinary Science and Home Economics: Practical experiences in cooking and sewing.

• Clubs & Activities: Including Video Game Club, Tinker Club, Mathletes, and Peer Leadership opportunities.

High School Pathways 

WUSD partners with Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD) to provide articulated CTE pathways. High school students can explore specialized academies and programs. For more information, visit the their website at https://www.avdistrict.org/academics/cte.