Career and Technical Education
Technology Education
There is a growing need in the U.S. Workforce to obtain well-trained, quality employees who are prepared for the challenges that our global economy desperately needs. Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Virginia public schools prepare today's students for tomorrow by offering quality hands-on learning in a "real-world" context. CTE programs in Virginia public schools currently serve more than 550,000 students in grades 6-12. CTE's mission is to ensure that every graduate is prepared for the challenges of post-secondary education and the workplace.
The Career and Technical Education Department at Dominion High School strives to engage students in hands-on learning to build skills for their future. Our classes prepare students for life outside of high school by focusing on workplace readiness skills. Whether they are pursuing a college degree, technical certification, or going immediately into the workplace, CTE students gain extensive experience in the fields of Technology, Business, Marketing, Education, Culinary, Fashion, Interior Design, and more.
Please contact your/your student's teacher if we can offer any help or assistance. Additionally, if you have any questions about CTE at Dominion High School, please reach out to the Department Chair, Mr. Terry Baker for further assistance.
Aerospace Science I
Grades 10-12
Aerospace Science I offers an introduction to the aerospace industry through a hands-on approach and exploration of topics such as flight, space, and supporting technologies. Students explore the aviation and space industries by examining the history of aviation, aerodynamics and aircraft components, flight conditions, airport and flight operations, space systems, rocketry, and living and working in space.
Aerospace Science II
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Aerospace Science 1
Aerospace Science II provides an advanced exploration of flight, space travel, and supporting technologies through a problem-solving method and practical application. Students explore concepts in aircraft operations; aircraft design, flight safety and maintenance; airport infrastructure; rocket technology; space systems; and living and working in the aerospace environment.
PLTW Intro Engineer Design H
Grades 9-12
Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work. Through both individual and collaborative team activities, such as project management and peer review. Students will develop skill in technical representation and documentation of design solutions according to accepted technical standards, and they will use current 3D design and modeling software to represent and communicate solutions. In addition, the development of computational methods that are commonly used in engineering problem solving, including statistical analysis and mathematical modeling, are emphasized. Ethical issues related to professional practice and product development are also presented.
Tech of Robotic Design
Grades 8-12
Students engage in the study of computers and microprocessors and their applications to manufacturing, transportation, and communication systems. Topics include computer equipment and operating systems, robotics, programming, control systems, and social/cultural impact of these technologies. Problem-solving activities challenge students to design, program, and interface devices with computer systems. Learning activities include robotics, computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing and design, and control of electromechanical devices.
Materials and Processes
Grades 9-12
Students focus on the industrial/technical materials and processes as they fabricate usable products and conduct experiments. Students explore and master multiple production materials including plastics, metals, woods, ceramics, and composites. Students explore the materials and the properties of each, investigate use of the materials in products, and experiment with the development of products using the materials. Students are expected to follow strict safety requirements when elements of instruction take place in the Technology Education production lab. Virginia’s Workplace Readiness competencies are also emphasized.
Manufacturing Systems I
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Materials and Processes OR Tech of Robotic Design
This course provides an orientation to careers in various fields of manufacturing. Emphasis will be placed on manufacturing systems, safety, materials, production, business concepts, and the manufacturing process. Students participate in individual and team activities to create products that demonstrate critical elements of manufacturing. Students are expected to follow strict safety requirements when elements of instruction take place in the Technology Education production lab.
Manufacturing Systems II
Grade(s): 11-12
Prerequisite: Manufacturing Systems I
Students develop an in-depth understanding of automation and its applications in manufacturing. Activities center on flexible manufacturing processes and computer integrated manufacturing (CIM). Students work in teams to solve complex interdisciplinary problems that stem from major systems in automated manufacturing. Students are expected to follow strict safety requirements when elements of instruction take place in the Technology Education production lab.
Business, IT, and Marketing
Computer Information Systems
Grades 9-12
Computer Information Systems provides students with opportunities to develop professional level skills in a project-oriented approach through the use of the Microsoft Office software package. Students apply problem-solving skills to real-life situations through word processing, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia presentations, and integrated software activities. Students work individually and in groups to explore computer concepts, operating systems, networks, telecommunications, and emerging technologies.
Advanced Computer Information Systems
Grades 10-12
Students apply problem-solving skills to real-life situations through advanced integrated software applications, including printed, electronic, and web publications. Students work individually and in groups to explore advanced computer maintenance activities, website development, programming, networking, emerging technology, and employability skills. Students enhance computer information technology skills through the use of advanced integrated applications to create documents, publications, and websites including complex graphs, customized reports, and multimedia presentations.
Intro to Cybersecurity
Grades 9-12
Cybersecurity affects every individual, organization, and nation. This course focuses on the evolving and all-pervasive technological environment with an emphasis on securing personal, organizational, and national information. Students will be introduced to the principles of cybersecurity, explore emerging technologies, examine threats and protective measures, and investigate the diverse high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand career opportunities in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Operations
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Intro to Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Operations Honors is designed to analyze computer and network administration and security with emphasis on cybersecurity concepts, including the practice of protecting systems, networks, programs, and data from digital attacks. Students receive broad exposure to many aspects of digital and information security while encouraging socially responsible choices and ethical behavior. Students engage in problem-based learning and role-play as cybersecurity experts. Instruction inspires algorithmic thinking, computational thinking, creativity and problem solving.
Accounting
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Computer Information Systems or Intro to Business and Marketing, recommended
In this course, students study the basic principles, concepts, and practices of the accounting cycle for a service business and a merchandising business. Topics covered include analyzing transactions, journalizing and posting entries, preparing payroll records and financial statements, and managing cash control systems. Business ethics and professional conduct are emphasized. Students learn fundamental accounting procedures, using both manual and electronic systems.
Business Law
Grades 10-12
Pairs with Business Management
In this semester course, students examine the foundations of the American legal system and learn the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Students gain practical knowledge and life skills by exploring economic and social concepts related to laws governing business and individuals. Focus areas include contracts, consumer protection, criminal law, tort law, international law, family/domestic law, employment law, and careers in the legal profession. Students interested in this course should also consider Business Management SEM. This course counts as an elective credit.
Business Management
Grades 10-12
Pairs with Business Law
In this semester course, students study basic management concepts and leadership styles as they explore business ownership, planning, operations, marketing, finance, economics, communications, the global marketplace, and human relations. Quality concepts, project management, problem solving, and ethical decision-making are an integral part of the course. Student leadership skills may be enhanced by participation in work-based learning opportunities and the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Students interested in this course should also consider Business Law SEM.
Personal Finance
Grades 10-12
Pairs with Economics
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success. In addition to developing personal finance skills, students also study basic occupational skills and concepts in preparation for entry level employment in the field of finance. The course incorporates all economic and financial literacy objectives included in the Code of Virginia §22.1-200-03B. This semester course is a graduation requirement beginning with the class of 2015. As part of the VDOE approved curriculum (6121.153), students will complete the W!SE Financial Literacy Certification Exam.
Intro to Business and Marketing
Grades 9-12
This entry-level course is offered for all students and recommended as an introduction to the career preparation program in Business & Marketing Education. Students explore the role of business and marketing in the free enterprise system and the global economy and apply decision-making skills as consumers, employees, and citizens. Communication and interpersonal skills are developed through various activities.
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business & Marketing, recommended
Sports and Entertainment Marketing is a course designed for students with an interest in the sports, entertainment, and recreation industry. This unique and innovative program explores the following areas: an orientation and understanding of the sports, entertainment, and recreation industry; strategic planning; product licensing; dealing with agents and personal managers; examination of concessions and on-site merchandising; market analysis; investigating safety and security procedures; event marketing and execution; and the production of a culminating event and the analysis of the event. DECA is an integral part of this course.
Grade(s): 11-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Marketing Recommended
This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth look into marketing and sales in the travel and tourism field. Students learn about issues related to business and resource management, tourism’s effect on the world economy, the political impact of tourism, and how the sales process affects the tourism industry. They develop advanced competencies in the areas of communication; human relations; finance; health, safety, and environmental issues; sales and marketing; industry technology; promotional planning; and marketing research. In addition, students gain an understanding of career trends and opportunities. Academic skills (e.g., mathematics, science, English, history, social science) related to the content are also a part of this course.
Grade: 10-12
1 Credit
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Marketing, recommended; screening conference with instructor
Providing instruction that enables students to hold and succeed in an entry-level job in marketing. In this year of the program, students concentrate on developing competencies needed by marketing workers in the areas of human relations, communications, advertising, display, operations, sales, and product and service technology. The student is provided with a variety of learning methods including practical activities, simulations, computer activities, guest speakers, and role-playing. DECA is an integral part of this course.
Grades 11-12
2 Credits
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Marketing, recommended; screening conference with instructor
Providing instruction that enables students to hold and succeed in an entry-level job in marketing, the course combines classroom instruction with supervised on-the-job training in a local marketing business. In this year of the program students concentrate on developing competencies needed by marketing workers in the areas of human relations, communications, advertising, display, operations, sales, and product and service technology. The student is provided with a variety of learning methods including practical activities, simulations, computer activities, guest speakers, and role-playing. Co-op students are expected to stay employed throughout the school year in a teacher approved marketing related job. DECA is an integral part of this course.
Grade: 11-12
1 Credit
Prerequisite: Marketing Co-Op or Marketing Non Co-Op
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of marketing principles and strategies applicable to a dynamic high-tech economy. Marketing activities are examined as part of the strategic planning process. How these activities interface with other major organizational functions will be analyzed. The issues of business planning, research and logistics, which confront the modern marketing manager, will be detailed. Critical thinking and technology will be emphasized as the student examines new and traditional methods of creating customer value and developing customer relationships using the Internet as one of the many tools available. DECA is an integral part of this course.
Students enrolled in the cooperative education (co-op) option must remain employed in a teacher-approved, marketing-related position for the duration of the school year. This course counts as an elective credit.
Family and Consumer Science
Gourmet Foods
Grades 9- 12
The application of science concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics are important to the study of foods. Students learn the relationship of science to foods, use of technology, nutrition, wellness, sports nutrition, food safety, and sanitation, time and resource management, foods and cultural diversity, contemporary trends and issues, and the use of the My Plate guide. Hands on activities in food preparation skills and techniques and in the actual planning, preparation, preservation, and serving of nutritious meals encourage the development of positive interdependence, individual accountability, social skills, and effective group functioning. Students use computers to analyze nutritional content of foods and to plan for special dietary needs.
Intro to Culinary Arts
Pre-requisite Gourmet Foods
Grades 10-12
Introduction to Culinary Arts students investigate food safety and sanitation, culinary preparation foundations, basic culinary skills, diverse cuisines, service styles, nutrition and menu development, and the economics of food. Students also explore postsecondary education options and career opportunities within the food service industry.
Independent Living - Semester
.5 credits, Pairs with Fashion Design
Grades 9- 12
Students build life skills focusing on creating and maintaining healthy relationships and making responsible financial, consumer, nutrition, and housing decisions. Students are empowered to make responsible consumer choices by applying decision-making, problem-solving, and management processes; earning and managing money; calculating value for food, clothing, and housing dollars; and applying the resources of time, materials, and technology for successful living.
Fashion Design & Merch - Semester
.5 Credit, Pairs with Independent Living
Grades 9-12
Students in Fashion Design & Merchandising SEM focus on identifying and exploring the individual careers within the apparel, accessory, and textile design, manufacturing, and merchandising industry. Units of study include the relationships that exist among all areas of the clothing industry; related global and economic issues; apparel, accessory, and textile technology; exploration of careers, including entrepreneurial opportunities in related areas; and the skills and personal characteristics necessary for success in careers in the apparel, accessory, and textile design, manufacturing, and marketing industry.
Early Childhood Education I
Dual Enrollment section available for qualifying students.
Grades: 10-12
This is a hybrid course that involves traditional face-to-face learning and virtual/online learning through Schoology. Students prepare to be primary providers of home-, family-, or institution-based child care services by focusing on the planning, organizing, and conducting of meaningful play and learning activities; child monitoring and supervision; record keeping; and referral procedures. Critical thinking, practical problem solving, and entrepreneurship opportunities within the field of early childhood education are emphasized. Practical experiences, (e.g., on-site lab, local daycare centers, elementary schools, other institutions) under the supervision of the instructor are required. Students also prepare for continuing education leading to careers in early childhood fields (e.g., medical social services and education). Work-based learning methods of instruction are encouraged for this course. Students combine classroom instruction and teacher-approved experiences with continuing supervision in the Early Childhood Education lab during the school year. Proof of tuberculosis (TB) screening is required. Students are responsible for getting TB screening prior to the start of the school year.
Early Childhood Education II
Dual Enrollment section available for qualifying students.
Grades: 10-12
This is a hybrid course that involves traditional face-to-face learning and virtual/online learning through Schoology. Students focus on occupational skills needed by personnel employed in early childhood related fields such as education, medical/health care, social services, counseling, psychology, and entrepreneurship. Work-based learning experiences (e.g., on-site lab, local daycare centers, elementary schools, other institutions) under the supervision of the instructor are required. Critical thinking, practical problem solving and entrepreneurship opportunities within the field of early childhood education are emphasized. Work-based learning methods of instruction are encouraged for this course. Students combine classroom instruction. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be eligible to take the ParaPro credential exam.
Teacher Cadet I DE
Grades: 11-12
Prerequisite: 2.7 GPA, application process, essay, teacher recommendation; TB screening is required
The Teacher Cadet Program is designed to attract talented high school students into the teaching profession through a challenging introduction to teaching. The student who completes Teacher Cadet will receive credits from Shenandoah University that could be transferable to other colleges or universities.
The program seeks to provide these students insight into the nature of teaching, the problems of schooling, and the critical issues affecting the quality of education in America’s schools.
Students participate in field experiences in LCPS Grades K-12. Students work with classroom teachers at their chosen grade level of interest.
Proof of tuberculosis (TB) screening is required. Students are responsible for getting a TB screening done prior to the start of the school year
Teacher Cadet II DE
Grade: 12
Prerequisite: Teacher Cadet I DE, TB Screening
Students continue to explore careers in the Education and Training Cluster and pathways. This course provides the opportunity for students to prepare for careers in education as they research postsecondary options, learn about the process of teacher certification in Virginia, and participate in a practicum experience. Proof of tuberculosis (TB) screening is required. Students are responsible for getting a TB screening done prior to the start of the school year