Sussex Tech enhances career study selection process

Sussex Technical High School recently implemented a new component for ninth-grade students to determine their career and technical education area of study.

The high school offers 19 CTE technologies, and students participate in their choice of six during their freshman year. Each course is four-and-a-half weeks long, and instruction includes use of the program’s current equipment and technologies. In prior years, students selected their CTE program after following this introduction rotation.

The new process to select a CTE program includes completing an application and participating in an interview conducted by CTE teachers and advisory committee members. Interviews were held March 13, and students also attended workshops designed to enhance communication, team-building and problem-solving, which are essential skills for workplace and academic success.

“Implementing a thoughtful and comprehensive CTE enrollment process for ninth-grade students is key to their success. By considering students' interests, goals and aptitudes, we can ensure they enter a CTE area which aligns with their strengths and aspirations. This approach supports successful program completion, industry credential acquisition, work-based learning opportunities, and postsecondary placement and career options. Additionally, the process focuses on essential life skills such as goal setting, communication skills, resume development, and interview techniques which assist students in making responsible career decisions and are beneficial and support their career, academic and future success,” said Dr. Daniell Bullock, Sussex Tech assistant principal.