Mt. Everest Academy is a K–12 alternative school in the San Diego Unified School District that offers a flexible, independent study model supported by a strong school community and personalized academic guidance. High school students have the opportunity to explore Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways in Design, Visual & Media Arts, Production & Managerial Arts, Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation, and Education. These programs allow students to develop creative portfolios, manage productions and live events, gain culinary and customer service experience, and explore the field of education through real-world, hands-on learning. With small group instruction, project-based coursework, and enrichment opportunities, Mt. Everest Academy supports students in building meaningful skills aligned to their interests while preparing for college, career, and life beyond graduation.
This pathway is for students who love drawing, designing, or using technology to create visual stories. Whether it's photography, digital illustration, graphic design, animation, or video production, students learn how to express ideas through images and media. They build skills in editing software, visual composition, and storytelling while developing portfolios that showcase their creativity. This pathway is great for students interested in careers like graphic designer, photographer, filmmaker, animator, or content creator.
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This pathway is for students who are interested in what goes on behind the scenes of performances, films, or live events. Students learn how to manage productions, operate technical equipment, direct projects, and plan events from start to finish. This pathway builds leadership, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills. It’s a great fit for students who want to explore careers in directing, stage management, lighting and sound design, producing, or arts administration.
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The Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation sector is a great fit for students who enjoy cooking, helping others, planning events, or learning about travel and customer service. This sector offers hands-on learning experiences in areas like culinary arts, nutrition, hotel and restaurant management, and event planning. Students build real-world skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership while exploring exciting careers in fast-growing industries.
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Students in the Education pathway learn what it takes to become a teacher or work in a school setting. They explore how students learn, how to create lesson plans, and how to support different types of learners. With opportunities to assist in classrooms and develop leadership skills, this pathway is perfect for students who want to make a difference as future educators, school counselors, or instructional aides.
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