Student Preparation

The Law and Public Safety (LPS) program at Charles R. Drew High School provides a comprehensive framework designed to prepare students for successful transitions into their chosen careers. The program integrates both co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities, allowing students to explore a variety of career pathways while gaining practical, hands-on experience.

With strong support and guidance from the school staff, students are encouraged to develop essential skills, build confidence, and actively pursue their career goals. This holistic approach not only enriches the educational experience but also equips students with the knowledge, competencies, and professional readiness needed for success in the law enforcement, public safety, and related fields.

Career Awareness and Employability

The Law and Public Safety (LPS) program at Charles R. Drew High School provides a structured, three-year career awareness and employability plan that prepares students for postsecondary education and careers in law enforcement, legal services, and public safety.

Students progress through a sequenced experience that includes career exploration, skill development, and career readiness. They engage with industry professionals through guest speakers, internships, job shadowing, and mentorship opportunities, while developing essential employability skills such as communication, professionalism, teamwork, and resume and interview preparation.

The program culminates in advanced coursework and capstone projects that allow students to apply academic knowledge in real-world contexts, ensuring they graduate with the skills, confidence, and career awareness necessary for success in their chosen pathway.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead

Student Focus

At Charles R. Drew High School, each student in the Law and Public Safety (LPS) program receives individualized career counseling tailored to their unique interests and goals. The CTAE program enhances this support by providing personalized career coaching from industry-certified instructors within each pathway. Students are required to complete an individual career plan and maintain a student portfolio, while also receiving graduation coaching from their counselors and the school’s graduation coach.

Individual Career Counseling

• Personalized Guidance: Students meet regularly with career counselors to discuss aspirations, explore potential career paths, and identify actionable steps to achieve their goals.
  
  

• Assessment Tools: Counselors use career assessments to help students identify strengths, interests, and skills, guiding them toward suitable careers in law enforcement, public safety, and related fields.
  
  

Industry-Certified Career Coaching

• Expert Insights: Students are paired with instructors who have real-world experience in law and public safety, providing valuable insights into industry standards, trends, and expectations.
  
  

• Skill Development: Career coaches assist students in developing relevant skills, advising on coursework, certifications, and extracurricular activities that enhance employability.
  
  

• Networking Opportunities: Coaches facilitate connections with professionals and organizations in the field, giving students exposure to industry networks and real-world experiences.
  
  

This comprehensive, student-centered approach ensures that every learner receives the support and guidance needed to navigate their career journey effectively, fostering confidence, readiness, and success in their future careers.

End of Pathway Assessment

At Charles R. Drew High School, the End of Pathway Assessment (EOPA) is a critical component of our Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program, ensuring that students acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers. The school utilizes the NOCTI Assessment, a nationally recognized exam, to evaluate student proficiency in their respective pathways.

End of Pathway Assessment Overview

• NOCTI Testing: All students enrolled in CTAE programs, including the Law and Public Safety (LPS) pathway, are required to complete the NOCTI Assessment. This exam measures technical skills and knowledge, ensuring students are prepared for postsecondary education or entry into the workforce.
  
  

• Outstanding Performance: Over the past three years, approximately 225 students have participated in the NOCTI testing, achieving a 97% passing rate. This reflects the strength of Charles R. Drew High School’s curriculum, instruction, and career-focused support systems.
  
  

By maintaining high performance standards and providing strong instructional support, Charles R. Drew High School ensures that students not only pass the End of Pathway Assessment but are also fully equipped for future academic and career opportunities in law enforcement, public safety, and related fields.

SkillsUSA Leadership team participate in the Elevate Conference

Students attend the Championship Rally

Five chapter members receive the statesman award during the 2025 Fall Leadership Conference.

Work-Based Learning

Work-Based Learning (WBL) at Charles R. Drew High School provides structured, age-appropriate experiences that prepare students for college and careers. Students progress from career awareness and exploration in middle school to WBL in grades 11–12, where they earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience aligned with their chosen career pathway.

WBL serves as a capstone experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting. The program is fully integrated into each student’s career pathway and may count toward graduation requirements. Students also engage with local industry professionals to learn about workplace expectations, industry trends, and essential professional skills.