Georgia Expands Construction Courses in CTAE+ Program

News Summary

The Georgia Department of Education is enhancing its CTAE+ initiative by introducing new construction courses aimed at helping students meet graduation requirements. The initiative allows students to earn credits in math, science, and English Language Arts through Career Pathways related to construction. This expansion includes partnerships with industry organizations to provide real-world exposure and support for educational programs. Cherokee County is also revitalizing its construction education programs, preparing students for future careers in high-demand fields.

Georgia Department of Education Expands CTAE+ Initiative to Construction Courses

The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) is rolling out an exciting expansion to its CTAE+ initiative, introducing a series of construction courses poised to help students earn critical academic credits. This development represents a significant addition to the Program for Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) in the state, enhancing students’ educational journey while simultaneously preparing them for the workforce.

CTAE+ Overview: Meeting Graduation Requirements

The CTAE+ initiative allows Georgia students to fulfill essential graduation requirements in math, science, and English Language Arts (ELA) by completing specific Career Pathways. In order to graduate high school, students in Georgia must complete four math, four science, and four ELA courses. With the introduction of construction courses, students can now meet their fourth-course requirements through identified Career Pathways that also satisfy academic standards.

New Career Pathways in Architecture and Construction

The recent expansion includes seven new Career Pathways within the Architecture and Construction Cluster, designed to meet the fourth mathematics graduation requirement. Completion of these pathways enables students not only to gain core academic credit but also to acquire CTAE course credits that are invaluable for their future careers. Examples of these pathways include Welding, which provides a fourth math credit, Flight Operations for a fourth science credit, and Marketing Communications and Promotions for a fourth ELA credit.

Industry Support for CTAE+

The initiative has received robust support from organizations such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Georgia, which emphasizes the importance of recognizing career opportunities in skilled trades. By integrating academic relevance with real-world applications, the CTAE+ initiative prepares students for high-demand industries while aligning with the admission requirements of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG).

Job Shadowing Exposes Students to Real-World Careers

Beyond classroom learning, partnerships between educational institutions and construction firms have provided students with essential exposure to real-world occupations. For instance, North Perimeter Contractors (NPC) organized job shadow days focused on civil engineering and heavy highway construction. Active engagement with students occurred at various events, including school functions where industry professionals shared insights about career pathways in construction.

Cherokee County Enhances Career Education Programs

The Cherokee County School District (CCSD) is rejuvenating its career education offerings through enhanced CTAE programs. Building on a history of providing numerous CTAE opportunities such as construction and healthcare science, CCSD is committed to aligning educational programs with student interests and community workforce needs. Through the formation of the Cherokee Workforce Collaborative, the district aims to promote local job opportunities and support student internships.

Reviving Construction Programs with Community Support

CCSD has taken concrete steps to bolster its construction programs, such as reviving the initiative at Etowah High School, which has seen an enthusiastic enrollment of 52 students. Collaborating with over 20 construction companies, along with contributions from various nonprofit organizations, the district has facilitated an enriching learning environment for students. These partnerships have provided necessary tools and materials, equipping students for success in the construction industry.

Healthcare Science Education on the Rise

Additionally, CCSD is expanding its healthcare science program at Sequoyah High School, ensuring that future medical professionals receive the education and training they need to thrive in the medical field. With growing partnerships with local healthcare facilities, students are gaining valuable clinical rotation opportunities.

Preparing Future-Ready Graduates

The overarching goal of CCSD is to ensure that every graduate is future-ready. By strengthening community and business partnerships, the district actively supports initiatives that enhance student preparedness across various fields, from construction to healthcare and beyond.

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Additional Resources

• Valdosta Today: GADOE Expands CTAE to Include Construction Cources
• Wikipedia: Career and Technical Education
• Ferrovial Newsroom: Highway Construction Crew Teams Up with Local Schools
• Google Search: Construction Education Programs
• Patch: Cherokee Schools Building Stronger Career Education Program
• Google Scholar: Career Education in Schools