Courses should be aligned with state and national standards. Instruction utilizes best practice pedagogy. Lessons prepare students to be excellent entry level employees and capable of success in industry aligned credentials.
Each pathway includes a LEAD class (Leadership Exploration And Development), alongside character-building instruction through the Character Strong Curriculum. Together, these two programs are instrumental in developing our students’ leadership skills, integrity, and readiness for successful careers in public safety.
All CTE Curiculumn is delivered via Canvas LMS (used by all Local Colleges, and Google Classroom.
The program’s syllabus is meticulously structured to meet the standards of both rigor and relevance, aligning with the curriculum of the California Department of Education (CADOE). Each course follows established prerequisites and sequences, allowing students to complete the pathway within a three-year timeframe. This structured approach creates a cohesive learning experience, where skills build progressively and foundational concepts are mastered before students tackle more complex material.
For each course, we provide a comprehensive syllabus that includes:
Class Rules and Policies: Clearly outlined expectations for behavior, attendance, and participation that contribute to a positive and productive learning environment.
Grading Policies: Transparent grading criteria to help students understand how they will be assessed on assignments, projects, tests, and participation.
Retesting Policies: A formal written policy regarding retesting opportunities in the event of a failing grade on written or performance-based assessments, ensuring that students have a pathway to demonstrate improvement and mastery.
Our commitment to delivering a structured, standards-based education ensures that students acquire the competencies and knowledge needed for career readiness while providing a reliable, supportive academic environment.
Helendale School District’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are inclusive and cater to students with diverse learning needs, including those with learning disabilities, English Language Learners, and varying skill levels. These programs introduce students to industry-specific terminology and curriculum, while teachers are trained to work collaboratively with all students to ensure comprehension through various instructional strategies.
The Academy of Careers and Exploration is committed to equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for success in college, careers, and life by aligning academic learning with industry standards. To fulfill this mission, our Career and Technical Education (CTE) instructors employ a variety of innovative teaching methodologies and strategies, fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for our diverse student body. Through a blend of academic and practical instruction, CTE instructors prepare students for roles in public safety, instilling both an understanding of the job functions and an appreciation for the societal importance of each profession.
Equity:
Our instructors are dedicated to ensuring equitable learning outcomes for all students, implementing diverse teaching techniques that address individual learning needs. In partnership with the California State University (CSU) system, our educators have gained valuable insights to support the Graduation 2025 Initiative, which seeks to increase graduation rates for all CSU students while closing opportunity and achievement gaps.
Diversity:
Recognizing the unique diversity within California’s public school system, Academy instructors are mindful of the ethnic and economic diversity of our students, as well as existing employment disparities in fields like criminal justice. To promote representation and inclusivity, our instructors have established partnerships with local law enforcement agencies, creating employment pipelines that provide students with opportunities to enter the workforce. This collaboration aims to build a law enforcement workforce that better reflects and serves the diverse communities within our state.
Through these focused efforts on equity and diversity, the Academy of Careers and Exploration remains committed to preparing students for meaningful contributions in public safety and other vital community roles.