Our District
Students & Families
Academics
Skip to content
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Architecture & Construction
Carpentry 1
Students will learn to use construction materials, current architecture and construction technologies, equipment and power and hand tools safely. They will be exposed to all aspects of house construction, including the building process, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drafting, blueprint reading, etc., as they construct an actual home. Students will strengthen core academic content by incorporating these skills into real-world situations encountered in the architecture and construction field, while also learning the value of doing quality work.
Carpentry 2
Students will build upon skills learned in Carpentry 1, and develop and refine leadership and supervisory skills through the actual house construction process. Upon completion, students will have a greater understanding of materials used for construction, specialty products, blueprint reading, and the responsibility of supervising an on-site construction crew, as well as be able to estimate costs of home projects. They will also investigate careers related to the architecture and construction career cluster. Students will have the opportunity to participate in an internship experience with a local contractor during second semester of Carpentry II.
Advanced Woodworking & Cabinetmaking
This course provides information on safety, blue print reading, hand tools, power machines, materials, and processes related to the broad field of woodworking and cabinetry. Complete a student-planned project approved by the instructor, demonstrate safe work habits, demonstrate correct tool and machine skills, identify different types of wood, identify and correctly apply finishes. Students will also work as a team to design and build a complete kitchen cabinet system for a house.
Advanced Woodworking & Cabinetmaking Part 2
Perfect your skills while working as a group to construct cabinets for the CTE houses under construction on site. Cabinets for the houses are measured, designed, built, and installed by students in the carpentry II class. The skills learned in this class will prepare students to work in the cabinetry field. Join our industry partners in advanced cabinet construction and make connections that could lead to future employment. There is also time in the class to work on individual projects.
Arts, A/V Technology, & Communications
Introduction to Arts/A/V Technology & Communications
Earn a full 1.0 credit of FINE ARTS CREDIT in ONE SEMESTER when you enroll in Intro to A/V at the CTE Academy! In Intro to A/V, students will explore all aspects of media production. Projects include: animation, film production, audio production, graphic design, and broadcast production. This class has something for everyone. Explore and create while you earn BOTH your required Fine Arts credits in a single semester. This class serves as the prerequisite to Digital Filmmaking, Broadcast Production, Digital Music, and Digital Animation.
Digital Filmmaking & A/V Production
Lights, Camera, Action... Digital Filmmaking at the CTE offers hands-on experience in acting, directing, camera operation, lighting, costume creation, sound gathering, production planning, script writing, special effects, etc. Use professional grade equipment as you construct your own demo reel to hit it big in Hollywood. Work in large and small groups to create: music videos, reality shows, and short films. Get a head start on getting your own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at the CTE Academy in Digital Filmmaking.
Broadcast Production
Ever wanted to be on TV? Whether it is sports, concerts, news, style shows, talk shows, or any other LIVE Broadcast, Broadcast Production is the place to be! Designed to get high school students the experience they need to work in the LIVE Broadcasting industry, students will be prepared to enter the workforce straight out of high school. Broadcast Production projects include: sports production, news broadcast, gameshow production, live music production, cooking shows, or whatever idea you may have. All student projects air on KLRN-TV! Great class for those looking to build LIVE Broadcasting skills.
Digital Music Production
Want to make your own record? In this class, turning your music down is not always required! Students will develop the technical skills to operate the necessary equipment to take their music from concept to completion. Students will develop knowledge of the business of music, music copyright, and the use of electronic music in the Entertainment Business, Computer Gaming, Internet Technology and Music Production fields. The Digital Music Production course provides students the basic knowledge and technical skills needed to prepare them for post-secondary study or entry-level employment in the Digital Music Production industry.
Digital Animation
Put your art in motion with Digital Animation at the CTE Academy! Create completely original 2D and 3D cartoons as you get your head start in the animation industry. Using industry standard software, students will learn skills to be successful in a variety of animation industries. Projects include: 2D animation, special effects, 3D modeling, 3D animation, etc. Whether you want to do art on video games, voice actor in major motion pictures, or work at Pixar, Digital Animation at the CTE Academy is a great place to jump start your animation career.
Automotive Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics
Automotive Brakes
This course provides students a chance to work on their own vehicles while learning the basic skills necessary to diagnose and repair various brake systems. Students will learn about drum brakes, disc brakes and parking brakes. They will also learn about the latest in anti-lock brakes, automatic braking and electronic control systems. Students will use the latest computers and equipment to analyze data and work on vehicles under actual conditions.
Automotive Suspension & Steering
During this class, students will learn to diagnose and repair steering and suspensions components while working in an actual shop environment. They will learn everything related to the steering and suspension to include conducting four wheel alignments, mounting and balancing tires and replacing components such as springs, shocks and ball joints. Students will have an opportunity to work on their own vehicles during this class.
Automotive Electronics
Students will learn the basic principles of electricity including the repair and servicing of electric circuit boards and components. They will also learn how to test and diagnose starting systems, charging systems, and electronic engine controls. Students will use up-to-date equipment and computers to analyze data, learn to work on audio and air conditioning systems, and learn the latest in modern electrical systems. They will have the opportunity to work on their own vehicles.
Automotive Engine Performance
Students will assemble an automotive engine, while learning the fine details of diagnosis related to engine performance. Students will learn about the six basic systems related to an automotive engine (air induction, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, and exhaust system). Students will test electronic engine controls and perform computer diagnostics, use up-to-date equipment and computers to analyze data. Students will use industry accepted equipment and practices to work on automobiles under actual shop conditions. Students will have the opportunity to work on their own vehicles.
Diesel Technology
This is an advanced automotive class that will expose students to diesel technology and careers in the related fields. Topics in this course include light duty diesel engine principles of operation and components, diagnostics and repair. They will also learn about related diesel systems such as electrical, fuel and starting systems, power trains, and hydraulics. Students will gain experience in how to apply and use tools and equipment which are used throughout the industry and in post-secondary level programs. This course is approved for dual credit as post-secondary institutions in SD.
Auto Body
Introduction to Auto Body Repair & Estimating
Students will learn about and demonstrate an understanding of the processes involved in basic automotive collision repair and estimating. This includes understanding industry definitions, demonstrating safety practices, understanding and demonstrating repair procedures, identifying the tools and how to use them, and completing written and computerized estimates. Students will get an introduction to procedures performed at body shops on a daily basis. Students will also explore the different careers available in the collision repair field.
Auto Body Structural Analysis & Damage Repair
Students will learn about and demonstrate an understanding of the processes involved in frame and structural repair. This includes understanding frame components and frame inspection, and demonstrating automotive technology safety practices, understanding and demonstrating correct repair and welding procedures and replacing windshields and glass. Students will explore the different careers available in the transportation career cluster and develop leadership skills.
Auto Body Structural Nonstructural Analysis & Damage Repair
Students learn to inspect, analyze, repair and replace nonstructural components. Students will determine the extent of damage to aluminum body panels and then repair or replace in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Students will weld damaged or torn steel body panels, repair broken welds, and replace door skins according to manufacturer’s procedures. Students will also finish and refinish more complex damage.
Auto body Painting & Refinishing
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the processes used in painting and refinishing, in accordance with the local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations. Students will learn to apply basecoat/clear coat for panel blending or partial refinishing to achieve invisible repair. Students will identify the types of rigid, semi-rigid or flexible plastic parts to be refinished; determine the materials, preparation, and refinishing procedures needed and apply multi-stage (tri-coat) coats for panel blending or overall refinishing. Students will inspect spray equipment to ensure compliance with applicable regulations, and for safety and cleanliness hazards. Students will learn to properly use the NIOSH approved personal sanding respirator and personal painting/refinishing respirator system. Select and use the proper personal safety equipment for various shop operations.
Aviation
Aviation I
This course provides students with an understanding of aviation history and possible career paths within the aviation industry. It also covers the basic introduction to relationships of weight and balance, principles of navigation and flight control, ground and airport operations and services, and Federal Aviation Agency regulations.
Aviation II
This course provides students with the first step towards a Private Pilot's license or Part 107-Drone Certification. Students will learn basic history of aviation, aircraft type/design, air density, forces of flight, propulsion, airframes, avionics/flight instruments, possible career paths within the aviation industry, and Federal Aviation Agency regulations.
Aviation III
This course provides students with the final step towards a Private Pilot's license or Part 107-Drone Certification. Students will learn basic history of aviation, aircraft type/design, air density, forces of flight, propulsion, airframes, avionics/flight instruments, possible career paths within the aviation industry, and Federal Aviation Agency regulations.
Information Technology
Computer Hardware & Software
Imagine building a computer then connecting it securely to a network. This exciting first step could lead to a rewarding IT career. Because a sure way to excel- no matter which area of IT you choose- is to learn the right computer fundamentals. IT Essentials covers this as well as shares the career skills needed for entry-level IT jobs. You'll enjoy working with Cisco Networking Academy advanced simulation tools and having multiple hands-on labs that hone your troubleshooting skills. Students meeting requirements and applying for Dual Credit within the first week can receive college credit.
Network Technologies
Begin preparing for a networking career with this introduction to how networks operate. This course introduces architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements- functions needed to support the operations and priorities of Fortune 500 companies to small innovative retailers. You'll even get the chance to build simple local area networks (LANs) yourself. You'll have a working knowledge of IP addressing schemes, foundational network security, and be able to perform basic configurations for routers and switches. Students meeting requirements and applying for Dual Credit within the first week can receive college credit.
Cybersecurity PLTW
Cyber Security will explore the field of computer security. It covers fundamental issues and first principles of security and information assurance. The course will look at the security policies, models and mechanisms related to confidentiality, integrity, authentication, identification, and availability issues related to information and information systems. Other topics covered include basics of cryptography (e.g., digital signatures) and network security (e.g., intrusion detection and prevention), risk management, security assurance and secure design principles, as well as e-commerce security. Issues such as organizational security policy, legal and ethical issues in security standards and methodologies for security evaluation and certification will also be covered. Students meeting requirements and applying for Dual Credit within the first week can receive college credit.
Core Content Courses
CTE Academy students have the opportunity to earn core content credit in the following courses in addition to their CTE course. Students will be required to meet periodically and complete additional coursework outside of their regular CTE block of time to meet all course standards and earn credit. Earning credit is accomplished through augmenting the approved CTE curriculum to meet core standards through separate small group instruction, an on-line component, and\or Podcasting. Successful completion of the additional coursework will require a high level of student responsibility and motivation, as much of the work will be done on an individual basis. Students taking core content courses will also benefit from more flexibility in scheduling courses toward graduation.
Integrated Speech
All CTE students have the option to take Integrated Speech in addition to their CTE course. Students will earn the regular Speech credit through CTE The course uses a combination of online learning and individualized speech coaching. As needed, students are provided with direct instruction. Students are responsible to self-manage assignments and presentations by using the online resources to practice and prepare their presentations. All presentations are given to the Speech instructor using the CTE course as the basis for content. The instructor provides resources and feedback for the student to improve his/her oral communication skills. This course fulfills the Speech standards as outlined in the district curriculum.
Integrated Research & Technical Writing
All CTE students have the option to take Integrated Research & Technical Writing in addition to their CTE course. Students will earn the regular English selective credit through CTE. The course uses a combination of online learning and individualized instruction. This course works to build reading fluency skills, student success strategies, and skills related to the type of technical writing utilized in the professional world. Students are responsible to self-manage assignments and project work by using the online resources to practice and prepare their submissions. All products are submitted to the instructor using the CTE course as the basis for content. The instructor provides resources and feedback for the student in an effort to grow his/her skills.
Integrated Creative Writing
Students may earn a selective English credit toward graduation. They are responsible to self-manage assignments and writings by using the online resources to practice and prepare their submissions; including various kinds of writing; interact with others to develop ideas for writing; use imagination, creativity, and technology in writing; share, edit and revise personal writing and the arming of others; evaluate strengths and weaknesses of writers; and submit pieces for publication. The course is a combination of online learning, mini-workshop sessions, and individualized instruction.
Integrated College Prep English
A college bound class geared towards applicable writing and communication standards for seniors seeking post-secondary education. Focus will be placed on collaborative and individual work that incorporates the narrative process, compare/contrast, analysis, college/military and workplace centered writing, argumentative critical thinking skills incorporated in ethical/social awareness, evaluate, organize, and integrate writing and research skills all while demonstrating the proper use of mechanics and English grammar language skills.
Engineering & Robotics
Introduction to Robotics
This course is designed to introduce students to the basics of robotics as it teaches science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students will learn how to use feedback from sensors, applied mathematics and measurement to program their robot to navigate in its environment. Students will have the opportunity to complete multiple challenges involving guided research, problem solving and working in teams.
Health Science
Health Careers 1
Students will explore a wide variety of health-related careers by learning and demonstrating basic patient care skills, professional qualities and characteristics, teamwork, and critical thinking. Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology (disease processes), medical terminology, and word building will be learned and applied throughout this course. The student will also have the opportunity to explore different areas of health care by attending field trips and listening to guest speakers who visit the classroom.
Health Careers 2
Classroom instruction will include first aid certification, CPR certification, medical math, human growth and development, surgical instruments, safety, dental, and pharmacology. Students will also explore interests in various health-related careers during a 10-week internship, in EMS- long-term care and acute care settings. The students will apply the basic entry-level health care skills learned in Health Careers I to their internship experience and gain insight into health-related careers. Medical terminology will be utilized throughout this course using journaling and case studies.
Hospitality & Tourism Culinary Arts
Culinary /Restaurant Management (Prostart 1)
The ProStart Program is an industry-based program that prepares students for careers in the restaurant and foodservice industry. Students gain valuable skills through their academic, lab and workplace experiences, lab participation and guest chef demonstrations. ProStart I topics include: Food & Workplace Safety, Kitchen Equipment & Techniques, Stocks, Sauces, Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, Pizza, Serving Your Guests, Building a Successful Career, Management Essentials, and an Introduction to Baking.
Culinary/Restaurant Management 2 (Prostart 2)
The ProStart Program is an industry-based program that prepares students for careers in the restaurant and foodservice industry. Students gain valuable skills through their academic, lab and workplace experiences, lab participation in addition to guest chef demonstrations. ProStart II topics include: Breakfast Cookery, Meat, Poultry, Seafood, Desserts & Baked Goods, Nutrition, Marketing, and Restaurant Management Essentials.
Baking & Pastries
Students will gain the fundamental skills necessary to work in a commercial bakery as well as skills needed to help them become proficient home bakers while enrolled in Baking and Pastry class. Students will gain valuable knowledge about this career field through class work and hands-on lab based training. Students will also have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals through demonstrations, field experiences, and guest speakers. Area studies will include breads, pies, cakes, pastries, cookies and much more.
Human Services
Intro to Human Services
This course explores people-oriented occupations that require training in areas such as human development, professionalism, and employment skills. Students will identify possible career paths suitable to their strengths, skills, and talents through shadow experiences, guest speakers, industry tours, and activities. Students will leave the class with both a resume and a portfolio.
Guiding Youth & Families
Do you enjoy working with small or large groups of people? Students will explore careers related to working directly with individuals of all ages. classroom activities, guest speakers, field trips, and shadow experiences will expose students to topics such as relationships, teen and family issues, ethics and legal issues, social problems, and community resources.
Personal Services
This course is a great choice for future physical therapists, personal trainers, dieticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, event planners, etc. Students will explore topics such as communications strategies, advertising, and consumer services related to working with individuals of all ages. Students will identify possible career paths through industry tours, guest speakers, and activities.
Manufacturing & Welding
Welding 2
Students will improve work and safety skills taught in Welding I; make and use workable plans for school and personal projects; improve out-of-position welding skills with S.M.A.W. (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), G.T.A.W. (Gas Tungsten Arch Welding) and G.M.A.W. (Gas Metal Arc Welding); become proficient in use of plasma cutter and wire feed welding processes. Students will prepare for Advanced Welding by accomplishing pre-hiring paperwork, such as resume, OSHA safety training, and interview skills.
Advanced Welding & Fabrication
Students will be exposed to gas tungsten arc welding, aluminum welding, gouging, blueprint reading, and heavy duty welding applications for large scale welding projects. Students will be expected to shadow a professional in the field to understand the physical attributes of the career and will be eligible to participate in a field experience.
Senior Capstone
The Senior Capstone Experience is available to CTE Academy students in all program areas during their senior year.
Senior Experience Capstone
Students will create a portfolio, develop a product, and complete a research paper and oral presentation related to their future career goals. They will have a faculty advisor to assist in topic selection, supervision of progress and completion of project.
Entrepreneurship Experience Capstone
The entrepreneurial experience includes the development of a business plan, portfolio and oral presentation related to a potential business idea of interest. Students will have a faculty advisor to assist in topic selection and supervision of progress, and a local entrepreneur to serve as a mentor.
Youth Internship Capstone 1
Students will gain real world experience in a career field that aligns with their career cluster of interest. They will spend a predetermined amount of hours at an appropriate work setting learning and being evaluated by specific competencies and industry-based standards. Students will also complete school assignments related to worksite activities, including daily logs, reflections and a portfolio. The classroom teacher and an employment supervisor share in instruction and supervision of the students involved in internship.
Youth Internship Capstone 2
Students will gain real world experience in a career field that aligns with their career cluster of interest. They will spend a predetermined amount of hours at an appropriate work setting learning and being evaluated by specific competencies and industry-based standards. Students will also complete school assignments related to worksite activities, including daily logs, reflections and a portfolio. The classroom teacher and an employment supervisor share in instruction and supervision of the students involved in internship.
Youth Internship Capstone 3
Students will gain real world experience in a career field that aligns with their career cluster of interest. They will spend a predetermined amount of hours at an appropriate work setting learning and being evaluated by specific competencies and industry-based standards. Students will also complete school assignments related to worksite activities, including daily logs, weekly summaries and a portfolio. The classroom teacher and an employment supervisor share in instruction and supervision of the students involved in internship.
Youth Apprenticeship
Youth Apprenticeship helps students gain work experience while earning a wage with a registered sponsor. An apprenticeship is designed for students to acquire hands-on job skills in a specific occupational area. Their experience will be gained through a career site and classroom instruction. Students earn high school credit as well as hours towards a registered apprenticeship. At the completion of the high school apprenticeship program, students can continue their apprenticeship to earn a nationally recognized credential. Youth Apprenticeship differs from an internship in that apprenticeships guarantee students receive a wage, hours towards a registered apprenticeship and the opportunity to receive a nationally recognized credential at the completion of the registered apprenticeship program.