CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION COURSES
Our partnership with Pointful Education takes our course catalog to the next level. Pointful CTE courses offer real-world learning opportunities while helping to prepare students for future career paths. All courses in the CTE catalog are designed to be implemented within both virtual and blended programs.
The catalog includes both career and technical education electives in addition to a variety of certification courses that prepare students for industry certification exams.
Grade 9-12
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Architecture & ConstructionArchitectural Design IArchitectural Design II
Architecture
In Principles of Architecture, students will review various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will learn about basic drafting equipment and how to use and maintain it. They will analyze challenges and solutions within the development of design. They will also learn how to prepare drawings manually and using AutoCAD software. A substantial portion of the course will be spent on sequential processes so that students develop an understanding of creating and annotating drawings as well as how to apply standard rules regarding line types, offset objects, creating layers, and setting up a page for plotting. They will also explore three-dimensional drawing and use coordinating and navigation systems to create them.
Architectural Design IIIArchitectural Design II
In this course, students will learn various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will gain an understanding of basic architectural and civil drawings as well as prepare for the Autodesk® Certified User certification in AutoCAD exam. In addition to learning fundamental architectural drawing concepts like creating site plans, floor plans, and electrical plans, students will learn functions of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD). CAD functions build on the foundation of architectural drawing, using specialized tools for enhancement, layout, and scale. Students will review the essentials of civil drawings including the interpretation and development of topographical illustrations. To round out the course, students will prepare computer-aided drawings to demonstrate utilizing software to perform activities such as drawing site plans, roof plans, and wall sections. Finally, students will be provided an overview of the requirements, structure, and preparation techniques for the Autodesk® Certified User certification in AutoCAD exam.
Building Maintenance Technology IArchitectural Design III
In Architectural Design III, students will review various concepts used in the design and architecture field. They will learn about additional CAD functions, professional ethics, and legal responsibilities as well as explore career options and complete a comprehensive Architectural Design project.
Building Maintenance Technology IIBuilding Maintenance Technology I
The Building Maintenance Technology course will focus on all aspects of the construction industry from health and safety to the tools that every construction professional needs in their collection. Students will learn about the various roles in the industry as well as job outlooks, educational and experiential requirements, and salary information. Some activities will focus on career exploration to discover career options that best align with interests and talents. Students will learn basic construction math and how it is applied during design and building phases of projects. They will learn specifics about carpentry, construction drawings, framing floor systems, framing walls, and framing roofs. Throughout, they will establish a foundation for what opportunities exist for them in the industry.
Construction: Fundamentals and CareersBuilding Maintenance Technology II
The Building Maintenance Technology II course will focus on construction components, masonry skills, and OSHA. Students will learn about the various masonry and concrete skills as well as safety measures. Some activities will focus on the real-world application of learned skills with hands-on components. Students will learn about erecting, plumbing, and bracing in relation to concrete as well as laying masonry units. Finally, students will learn important science skills for the construction industry and prepare for OSHA 30-hour Construction certification exam.
LEED Green AssociateConstruction: Fundamentals and Careers
This course introduces students to the evolving industry of construction! In addition to building on standard concepts such as technical skills, project planning, and regulations, students will learn about the variety of career possibilities within construction. They will also explore the entrepreneurial side of construction and discover what it takes to start and run your own business in this field. Finally, the course will look towards the future and analyze trends in green materials, energy efficiency, and technology to determine how these will impact the homes we build and live in.
LEED Green Associate
This course introduces students to the LEED process. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the global standard for green building certification. Throughout the course, students will gain an understanding of the various components of green building. The theme of sustainability and sustainable construction is woven throughout each module both in terms of physical environment and as it pertains to LEED certification.
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Agriculture, Food & Natural ResourcesAgriscience IAgriscience II
Agriscience I
This course will prepare students for careers in agriscience. Agriculture is the world's largest industry, so the critical nature of understanding how agriculture must thrive in unpredictable conditions cannot be overstated. Throughout the modules, students will gain an understanding of some of the fundamental issues in agriscience, including safety, environmental factors such as climate change and extreme-weather conditions, plant and animal science, and food safety. Additionally, students will explore how they can emerge as leaders in such a complex and exciting industry!
Agriscience IIIAgriscience II
In this course, students will explore the various components of agriscience careers and agricultural living. Beginning with career exploration, students will become familiar with the vast array of opportunities that exist in agriscience. They will discover what is necessary for the proper care and management of livestock from keeping living quarters clean to caring for newborn animals. Students will understand the ways in which plants, crops, and vegetation thrive in varying conditions. They will explore the fundamentals of running a successful agriscience operation as well as how agriscience affects and is affected by global economic conditions.
Agriscience III
In this course, students will explore the various components of agriscience careers and agricultural living. Beginning with career exploration, students will become familiar with the vast array of opportunities that exist in agriscience. They will discover what is necessary for the proper care and management of livestock from keeping living quarters clean to caring for newborn animals. Students will understand the ways in which plants, crops, and vegetation thrive in varying conditions. They will explore the fundamentals of running a successful agriscience operation as well as how agriscience affects and is affected by global economic conditions.
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Arts, A/V Tech & CommunicationAdobe After EffectsAdobe Illustrator
Adobe After Effects
In this course, students will explore the comprehensive Adobe After Effects software. Adobe After Effects is the industry standard for making motion graphics and special effects for presentations, internet content, and video. Both Windows and Mac OS systems can run After Effects, so students will uncover the nuances of working with each. The modules in the course will take students through the creation of a project from defining the audience to organization to publishing their creations.
Adobe InDesignAdobe Illustrator
This course introduces students to Adobe Illustrator and prepares students to take the ACA Certification Exam on Illustrator. Students will get an insight into what it is like working in the graphic design industry. Students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating Illustrator to performing complex tasks like managing colors, drawing, creating illustrations, and much more. The course contains guided video tutorials, hands-on projects, and step-by-step resources that help students learn how to work in Illustrator.
Adobe PhotoshopAdobe InDesign
This course introduces students to the world of Adobe InDesign. Students will get an insight into what it is like working in the print and digital media publishing industry. Over 10 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating InDesign to performing complex tasks like creating multi-page documents, applying effects, and even creating original artwork. The course contains guided tutorials, do-it-yourself projects, and great resources that will help students practice and learn how to work in InDesign.
Adobe Premiere ProAdobe Photoshop
This course introduces students to the world of Adobe Photoshop. Students will get an insight into what it is like working in the visual and graphic design industry. Over 11 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating Photoshop to performing complex tasks like editing and retouching photos, applying filters and effects, and even creating original artwork. The course contains guided tutorials, do-it-yourself projects, and great resources that will help students practice and learn how to work in Photoshop.
Adobe Premiere Pro
This course introduces students to the world of Adobe Premiere Pro. Students will get an insight into the video design and production industry. Over 7 modules, students will progress from absolute basics like navigation to performing complex tasks like editing videos, applying filters and effects, and even creating original artwork. The course contains guided tutorials, engaging projects, and great resources that will help students practice and learn how to work in Premiere Pro. This course also prepares students for the Adobe Certified Associate Certification Exam on Premiere Pro.
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Business Management & AdministrationEntrepreneurship and Small BusinessStartups and Innovation
Entrepreneurship and Small Business
This course will prepare students for certification in Entrepreneurship and Small Business. The modules are designed to cover all aspects of entrepreneurship including traits of successful entrepreneurs, business management, hiring employees, creating a company culture, managing finances, and marketing products and services. Each module will challenge students to put themselves in the role of an entrepreneur and consider how they will handle the extensive responsibilities of starting a business.
Social Media Business MarketingStartups and Innovation
Students hear a lot of contradictory advice in life. On one hand, they may hear something like “Follow your dreams. Pursue your passion and the money will come!” On the other hand, they may hear something completely opposite, like “Most startups fail! It’s much safer to get a safe, steady job.” So which side is right? Given the massive changes to the economy and society, the skills of entrepreneurship are going to be critical in building a lasting career. The entrepreneurial mindset of searching for opportunities, creating value, and solving pain points will always be valuable. And this mindset applies not just to starting a business, but in any organization that someone is a part of: school, established companies, or non-profits. In this course, students will explore how to use this mindset to create the next world-class startup.
Microsoft ExcelSocial Media Business Marketing
The Social Media Business Marketing course is intended to prepare students to become Social Media Strategists. This course begins with an introduction to Social Media platforms and then goes in depth into the marketing and advertising strategies used to support a business in Business Social Media Marketing. Through activities and projects students will gain firsthand knowledge of this fulfilling field. This course prepares students for the Social Media Strategist certification.
Microsoft OutlookMicrosoft Excel
This course introduces students to the world of Microsoft Excel. Students will get an insight into the use of the product within the business setting. Over 8 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating Microsoft Excel to performing complex tasks like formulas and functions. This course prepares students for the Microsoft Office Associate Microsoft Excel Certification.
Microsoft PowerPointMicrosoft Outlook
In this course, students will navigate Microsoft Outlook, which is the preferred email client for sending and receiving emails from the Microsoft Exchange Server. Outlook includes access to contact, email, calendar, and task management tools. Microsoft Outlook is a component of Office 365 and the Microsoft Office suite, including Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. From fundamental processes like adding an account to more complex tasks such as customizing features to better accommodate specific needs, students will explore all that Microsoft Outlook can do.
Microsoft WordMicrosoft PowerPoint
This course introduces students to the world of Microsoft PowerPoint. Students will get an insight into the use of the product within the business setting. Over 11 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating Microsoft PowerPoint to performing complex tasks like 3DModels, Animations, and Transitions. This course prepares students for the Microsoft Office Associate Microsoft PowerPoint Certification.
Microsoft Word
This course introduces students to the world of Microsoft word. Students will get an insight into the use of the product within the business setting. Over 11 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like navigating Microsoft Word to performing complex tasks like graphic elements and collaboration. This course prepares students for the Microsoft Office Associate Microsoft Word Certification.
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FinanceCareer Exploration in FinanceFundamentals of Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency
Career Exploration in Finance
This course introduces students to the challenging and lucrative world of finance. While “Wall Street” may still get a bad rap after the 2008 financial crisis, finance careers still remain highly sought after and can be highly rewarding. The course reviews key financial terms and examines various groups, positions, and roles within financial institutions. Students will learn about resumes, interviews, and networking. Students will also discuss ethics on Wall Street and the role of finance within society.
Personal FinanceFundamentals of Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency
In this course, students will learn all about bitcoin, including its history, development, and context within the modern global economy. Students will learn the basic cryptographic principles that underlie bitcoin, and gain confidence by demonstrating strong security principles in storing and transacting bitcoin. Key principles such as mining, wallets, and hashing will be introduced. And finally, they will be familiarized with the nascent industry of digital currencies and how they function.
QuickbooksPersonal Finance
The Personal Finance course is intended to prepare students to be successful financial citizens. They will learn their role and responsibilities as a responsible financial planner and saver as well as learn about the services, functions, and products of the financial industry. In addition, they will make informed buying decisions and understand personal taxation, wills, insurance, and contracts. Finally, they will learn about saving and investing as well as consumer credit and loans.
Quickbooks
In this course, students will explore how to start using QuickBooks Online. Learning this widely used accounting software will allow users to contribute to a large company’s accounting team, or to use it independently as a small business owner. Students will learn how to complete administrative and accounting functions within QuickBooks. These include basics such as setting up lists, customers and products, to more complex tasks like managing journal entries and creating reports. Additionally, they will learn about the various services and products that can be added. As students learn about the accounting functions, they will discover how to record transactions, expenses, and receipts.
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Education & TrainingEarly Childhood Education IEarly Childhood Education II
Early Childhood Education I
The Early Childhood Education I course is designed to provide an overview of the expectations and roles of the early childhood educator. The course provides details about childhood development, health, nutrition, and guidance strategies to help students understand the exciting and unique opportunities that a career in early childhood education can offer. The course is intended to prepare students for challenges they may face, but to emphasize the rewards of being able to influence the life of a young child. The ability to offer support to children as they learn, and grow is a point that is highlighted throughout each lesson.
Education and Teaching AdvancedEarly Childhood Education II
The Early Childhood Education II course is designed to provide an overview of the professional expectations of being an early childhood educator. Throughout the course, students will learn about what it means to be a professional, including the significance of professional development in any educational role. They will review observational methods and the history of education in the United States, with a focus on early childhood and school-age programs. They will spend a significant portion of the course learning about the importance of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (“DAP”) and how to implement DAP strategies. Designing physical, social, and temporal environments will also be a major focus of the course, as will developing relationships with families and communities to strengthen their position and knowledge.
Teaching as a ProfessionEducation and Teaching Advanced
This course is designed to prepare future educators for the classroom they will inherit! It starts with a history of education and how blended, adaptive, and personalized learning are coming to the forefront in learning. It then explores new and emerging technologies, along with their current and future impact on education. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of career possibilities in the education field and evaluate both the promises and pitfalls of technology in education.
Teaching as a Profession
Teaching can be a highly rewarding profession. Throughout the course, students will explore career opportunities within the field of education. They will learn what it means to be a professional in the classroom, whether it be working alongside co-teachers or managing an inclusive and diverse group of students. Students will learn about the code of conduct expected of educational professionals. Students will explore the history and best practices in the teaching profession as well as professional development opportunities. They will discover what it means to emerge as leaders in the field.
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Health ScienceCareer Exploration in DentistryCareer Exploration in Healthcare
Career Exploration in Dentistry
This course introduces students to the exciting and varied career opportunities in the dentistry profession, from dental assistant all the way up through oral surgeon. Students will review the history of dentistry globally and in the U.S., and will learn key dental terminology. The course will introduce the roles and tasks done as well as skills and education required of nearly every member of the dental staff. Students will gain an understanding of what it takes to perform each position, and how they work together.
Health Management and Information SystemsCareer Exploration in Healthcare
This course introduces students to the exciting and varied career opportunities in the health care industry that will be in demand in their future! The course will introduce the roles and tasks, identify education and skills needed, identify responsibilities of roles which support or supervise their role, analyze legal and ethical responsibilities, limitations, and implications for each of these professions. Get ready. Get set. Learn about the Future of Health Care Careers!
Health Management and Information Systems
In this course, students will explore the comprehensive world of healthcare information and management. Throughout the modules, students will learn about the history of the healthcare system as well as the current best practices in the field. They will explore the innovative technologies being developed and applied in patient care and patient privacy. Students will become familiar with the specific terminology utilized within the clinical and information technology systems. Students will investigate the complexities of the business of healthcare including data organization and security considerations. Finally, students will identify the ways in which communication and leadership go hand in hand with a thriving career in healthcare information and management systems.
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Information TechnologyCybersecurityFundamentals of Blockchain and Cryptography
Cybersecurity
In the Cybersecurity course, students will learn about the practice of protecting networks, systems, and programs from digital attacks. They will better understand the aim of these attacks, such as destroying information, extorting money and resources, or disrupting business operations. They will learn about the challenges and opportunities that implementing cybersecurity measures can present. As attackers become more innovative, it is more important than ever to have effective cybersecurity channels in place to counter them. Students will learn about countermeasures and role recovery and their integral function in the cybersecurity realm. Additionally, students will learn what makes certain networks and systems more vulnerable to attacks. They will become adept at identifying potential viruses, worms, threats, and malware. The Cybersecurity course acts as a foundation on which to build extensive knowledge about threats to digital security.
Java SE 8 AssociateFundamentals of Blockchain and Cryptography
Blockchain seems to be the latest buzzword that the business world is taking about. But what is it? And why should a high school student care? This course will seek to answer those questions. It will strip away the layers of complexity and sophistication to help students understand the key concepts of the blockchain. The course will introduce and discuss applications where blockchain has the greatest potential.
NetworkingJava SE 8 Associate
This course introduces students to the world of Java SE8. Students will get an insight into the fundamentals of Java programming. Over 9 modules, students will learn everything from absolute basics like learning about Java class, variables, and how to run a Java program, to handling arrays and exceptions. The course contains guided tutorials, do-it-yourself projects, and great resources that will help students practice and learn how to program in Java. After completion of this course, students will be prepared to take either the Java SE 8 Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) certification exam or the Information Technology Specialist in Java certification exam.
Swift App DevelopmentNetworking
The Networking course is intended to identify the key components of Networking in today’s fast-moving world. From network fundamentals to automation and programming, students will learn the details of network access, IP connectivity and services, and security fundamentals. Through exciting and engaging interactivities, simulations, and projects students will explore firsthand these networking concepts to further their future with preparation for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam.
Swift App Development
In this course, students will learn about Swift App development and its components. Apple developed the powerful and user-friendly programming language Swift for creating iOS, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch apps. Developers have more freedom than ever before, and the open-source app allows anyone with an idea to create something incredible. From planning to navigation to building, students will learn how to take an idea and create something potentially evolutionary!
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STEMAeronautics and Space TravelAugmented and Virtual Reality Applications
Aeronautics and Space Travel
This course introduces students to the history and near future of space travel. Students will explore the possibilities of moon bases, Mars colonies, and visiting the outer planets in our solar system and their moons. Students will also discuss important ethical and legal issues around space exploration, such as asteroid mining and war in space. The course gives an expansive view of the technologies, science, and theories that will make far-fetched dreams into realities during the student's lifetime.
Cloud Technology and the Internet of ThingsAugmented and Virtual Reality Applications
Separating hype from reality is hard… especially in the fast-growing and evolving space of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Recent advances in technology has allowed AR/VR systems to become extremely sophisticated and realistic. This course introduces students to the technologies that underpin AR/VR systems. Then the course walks through 7 applications of AR/VR and how they will change and impact numerous aspects of our lives and the economy. Students will also learn about and discuss the risks and side effects of these systems, including health, privacy, and ethical implications.
Introduction of Artificial IntelligenceCloud Technology and the Internet of Things
First, we had the internet of computers. Then with the advent of email and social media, along with mobile technology, it became the internet of people. Today’s world is increasingly becoming the internet of things. With advances in battery power, sensors, and computer chips, more and more devices are being connected to the internet. This will allow them to be monitored, controlled, and used more effectively for people and businesses. This course will examine the trends and opportunities surrounding the Internet of Things (IoT). Students will learn about the technologies, hardware, and software that underpin the Internet of Things. The course will examine a variety of end-market applications in our homes, businesses and cities. Finally, students will learn about the many career opportunities that the Internet of Things will enable.
Robotics: Applications and CareersIntroduction of Artificial Intelligence
This course teaches what every student should know about Artificial Intelligence. AI is a fast-moving technology with impacts and implications for both our individual lives and society as a whole. In this course, students will get a basic introduction to the building blocks and components of artificial intelligence, learning about concepts like algorithms, machine learning, and neural networks. Students will also explore how AI is already being used, and evaluate problem areas of AI, such as bias. The course also contains a balanced look at AI’s impact on existing jobs, as well as its potential to create new and exciting career fields in the future. Students will leave the course with a solid understanding of what AI is, how it works, areas of caution, and what they can do with the technology.
Smart Cities: Technology and ApplicationsRobotics: Applications and Careers
It seems like many elementary to high school robotics courses are focused on simply coding a Lego robot to move its mechanical arm up and down. This course, in contrast, teaches students what a robot is and how it relates to other key technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. Then the course examines 10 applications of robots and how they will change and impact various aspects of our lives and the economy. Will robots simply steal our jobs, or will they be a tool that will create new opportunities and even free humans to use our creativity and curiosity to their full potential? Students will grapple with this and many other questions as they explore this vital, future-focused subject.
Transportation TechnologiesSmart Cities: Technology and Applications
This course will provide students with an overview of smart cities. The course will begin by providing a foundational explanation of what constitutes a smart city and why they are beginning to pop up around the globe. With a firm understanding of what a smart city is, the majority of the course will focus on various aspects of them such as energy, transportation, data, infrastructure, mobility, and IOT devices. The course will conclude with an analysis of careers related to smart cities.
Wearable Technology InnovationsTransportation Technologies
This course introduces students to the newest and most cutting-edge futuristic transportation technologies out there. Students gain familiarity with the history of transportation development and understand a framework with which to evaluate new transportation modes. Then the course dives into 10 different technologies on the horizon. Students examine the technologies, the pros and cons of each mode, and explore potential career paths in these emerging fields.
Wearable Technology Innovations
From hearing aids to pedometers to smart watches, humans have made and worn devices to overcome physical deficiencies, count their steps, and communicate. With the continued miniaturization of chips and sensors, combined with increasing sophistication of artificial intelligence, wearable technology has proliferated into countless end-markets. This course will introduce students to wearable technologies and the components and software that make these technologies possible. The course will also evaluate several applications of wearable technologies in various industries. Finally, the course will examine and discuss the implications of wearable technology, including its pros and cons, and potential implications to our health, privacy, and society.
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Additional CTE ElectivesDrones: Remote PilotCareer and Financial Management
Drones: Remote Pilot
This course prepares students to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 exam, also know as the Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG) exam, which is essential to becoming a commercial drone pilot. The field of unmanned aerial vehicles is growing rapidly, as the opportunities to use them for search and rescue, photography, recreation, inspection, and many others continue to multiply. Students will learn the critical facts to prepare for the test’s topics, which include: regulations, airspace & requirements, weather, loading & performance, and operations. The course will conclude with a look at the most promising careers in the field of drones.
Project ManagementCareer and Financial Management
The Career and Financial Management course prepares students to make decisions regarding their life, career, and financial future. Throughout the course, they will investigate a variety of career pathways and determine how to make decisions that will affect their employment opportunities. Students will identify career readiness skills, and how education opens up opportunities for advancement and growth. Through lessons on leadership, communication, and technology, students will better understand the modern workplace. The second half of the course focuses on money management and includes critical topics such as budgeting, saving, loans and credit, identity protection, investing, insurance, and taxes.
History of Gaming and EsportsProject Management
The Project Management course is intended to identify the key components of a career as a project manager. Students will review the basics in project management terminology, such as designating distinctions among projects, products, programs, and portfolios. They will delve into concepts like managing deliverables and creating engaging relationships with stakeholders. The primary components of project planning will be laid out and described in detail. Students will explore teams and organizational structures. They will discover project management tools and innovation being used in the industry. Overall, they will develop a greater understanding of the mechanisms that are in place to effectively carry out projects of any size through specific project management techniques.
History of Gaming and Esports
In this course, students will learn about the technologies and design principles that have been the foundation the development of video game technology over the last 50 years. Students will examine and discuss the impact of video games on culture and the economy. Students will learn about the current gaming and e-sports landscape, including strategies and techniques of top teams and individuals. This course will also discuss the risks and dangers of video games and understand how to set appropriate time and content parameters. Finally, the course will identify career paths and opportunities for those who are passionate about gaming.