Hello, I'm Ben Vogt. I teach CTE Arts at North Beach Jr/Sr High School, where I'm conditionally certified and building a five-class program that runs from Junior High digital media all the way through to a student-run business and a full publishing operation.
Before teaching, I worked as a graphic designer for over 30 years in multiple creative firms and as a freelance designer. I also founded and ran my own design firm and an apparel and stationery business. That meant working directly with clients to design everything from logos and packaging to print ads and websites — and managing the entire process from first concept to final product. I also spent years mentoring junior designers, which taught me that the best way to learn creative work is by doing it for real.
That's what this program is built on. The skills I used to run a business, manage client work, and deliver professional-quality design are the same skills you'll learn here — whether you're designing products for the School-Based Enterprise, laying out spreads for Yearbook, or developing marketing strategies in FBLA.
I believe every student has a creative instinct.
This program is designed to give it somewhere to go.
Ben Vogt — bvogt@northbeachschools.org
The Shop, North Beach Jr/Sr High School
336 State Route 115
P.O. Box 969
Ocean Shores, WA 98569
(360) 289-3888
Q: What does CTE stand for?
A: Career & Techincal Education — it prepares students for both college and careers by combining rigorous academic coursework with real-world, hands-on learning.
Q: Do I need to already be good at art?
A: No. Every class in CTE Arts is designed to meet you where you are. You'll build skills in class. Willingness to try is the only requirement.
Q: I'm in Jr. High — which classes can I take?
A: Digital Media is specifically designed for Jr. High students as an entry point into the program. Talk to your counselor about what other classes may be available to you based on your grade and schedule.
Q: Can I take more than one CTE Arts class?
A: In many cases, yes — especially at the high school level. Commercial Art, Design Foundations, FBLA, and Yearbook can often be paired. Talk to your counselor about your schedule options.
Q: Does FBLA cost money?
A: FBLA has a national membership component that may include dues. Current costs will be shared at the start of the school year. Talk to the teacher if cost is a concern — we want to make participation accessible.
Q: How does the Yearbook ad sales team work?
A: Yearbook students on the ad sales team reach out to local businesses and community members to sell advertising space in the book. They also design the ad layouts. It's one of the most real-world experiences in the program — real clients, real revenue, real deadlines.
Q: Will CTE Arts credits count toward graduation?
A: All CTE Arts classes count as approved elective credits. Some may qualify for additional credit designations depending on your counselor's guidance. Ask your counselor for specifics.