Career & Technical Education

1 credit of CTE is required for graduation

Career Choices (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite(s): Students should be proficient in basic computer skills, DigiTools, middle school Tech Ed or teacher approval.

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


Career Exploration courses help students identify and evaluate personal goals, priorities, aptitudes, and interests with the goal of helping them make informed decisions about their careers. In this course students will explore college and career options, develop a basic understanding of financial literacy and will set short and long term goals with strategies to achieve success after high school.

Business Law (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

A general course that focuses on law and new issues from the perspective of social sciences and humanities. The course includes instruction in the theory and practice of the legal system, including the statutory, administrative, and judicial components of civil and criminal law. Students will have the opportunity to interface with people who are currently working in the legal professions in a variety of areas. The course includes guest speakers and field trips to places associated with the content presented in the course.

Environmental Science (Grades 9-12; 1 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Science; Career and Technical Education

Students enrolled in environmental science will learn about global climate change, environmental justice, pollution, and how our world is impacted by human institutions. Students will (1) apply science to understanding ecosystems and natural resources; (2) understand the policy and social implications of environmental issues; (3) gain knowledge and skills to understand the consequences of human actions on the world; (4) develop the writing, and speaking skills needed to communicate with the public and professionals concerning the environment; (5) and explore local environmental related college and career options. Students may earn a science or occupational education credit.

Environmental Science 2 (Grades 10-12; 1 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Science; Career and Technical Education

A course that focuses on the studies and activities relating to the natural environment and its conservation, use, and improvement. Includes instruction in subjects such as climate, air, soil, water, land, fish and wildlife, and plant resources; in the basic principles of environmental science and natural resources management; and the recreational and economic uses of renewable and nonrenewable natural resources.

Digitools Basic (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


This computer and Information technology course will teach students to operate and use computer and information technology, emphasizing their role as tools to communicate more effectively, conduct research more efficiently, and increase productivity. Students will master the standard keyboard. This is a one semester course and is intended for students who have limited or no prior computer experience. Students will master keyboarding, file management, and word processing.

Digitools (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

This is an ENTRY level computer course focused on Microsoft Office. Students will learn Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Keyboarding. This is a one semester course and is intended for students who have limited computer experience.

Microsoft Office Specialist (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite: Prior computer class

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

Students will be able to demonstrate mastery of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to earn Microsoft Certification. This is a one semester course. Students enrolling in this course should be able to keyboard a minimum of 20 words per minute and have word processing experience.

  • Keyboarding 20 WPM

  • Word Processing

  • Ability to save and open files

  • Cut/Copy/Paste

  • Demonstrate ability to use the ribbon and open dialog boxes

Exploring Computer Science (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite(s): DigiTools or Microsoft Office Specialist or Media Arts preferred.

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


This course serves as an introduction to Computer Science where students are taught the creative, collaborative, interdisciplinary and problem solving nature of computer science.

Some of the topics covered include: How a computer works, understanding how the Internet of Things is alive and shaping our future, creating your own web page, designing computer games, and programming a robot.

AP Computer Science A (Grades 10-12; 1 credit)

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 2 or above preferred and DigiTools, Microsoft Office Specialist, Exploring Computer Science, Computer Science Principles, or Media Arts.

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education; Dual Credit Option


Want to become an expert problem solver and up your game in almost every way? Well then, APCS might be perfect for you! Learn to write the same coding language that Google, Netflix, Amazon, and other major companies use and solve the same everyday problems they work on. In APCS, you will design your own program and develop solutions to problems in a way that makes sense to you, not just some answer key. In APCS, as long as it works, it counts.


APCS follows the University of Washington’s suggested curriculum designed to mirror college-level computer science courses. Topics covered will include primitive types, procedural, basic control structures, array manipulation, file processing and using and defining objects. Students will learn by designing, writing and testing their own software in professional grade software. Students will be expected to take the AP Computer Science exam in the spring.

AP Computer Science Principles (Grades 10-12; 1 credit)

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1 or above Preferred, Exploring Computer Science or Media Arts.

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education; Dual Credit Option


Computer Science Principles (CSP) is an AP class that doesn’t feel like an AP class. CPS is a new and engaging course designed by many desirable colleges and technology companies to introduce high school students to the foundations of modern computing and program development. It mimics the same project based learning as Exploring Computer Science by learning first then building a project later.


The course covers the top five principles of Information Technology and Computer Science.


Principle 1 – Understanding the internet

Principle 2 – Digital information and visual communication

Principle 3 – Algorithms & Programming

Principle 4 – Big Data & Privacy

Principle 5 – Design and Building Apps

CTE Work-Based Learning (Grades 11-12; 0.5 credits)

Prerequisite(s): (1) Students must be currently taking or have taken a CTE (occ. ed.) class related to the student’s career pathway and the worksite; (2) Students must be at least 16 before enrolling in Worksite learning; and (3) Students must provide their own transportation to/from/during the Worksite Learning experience.

This class is outside of the regular school day.

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


Students apply skills and concepts learned in other Career and Technical Education courses in a real-life work setting. Students gain occupational and employability skills while applying and advancing their knowledge in academic and technical areas. Students will gain exposure and experience while obtaining instructional training in a specific career pathway of their own choosing. Students will receive a 0.5 credit for completing 180 hours of work experience during each semester. Students are responsible for obtaining their own worksites.

Yearbook & Media Publications (Grades 10-12; 1 credit)

Prerequisite(s): Media Arts or General Art are recommended

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education; Fine Arts


This is a publication production course that provides the students with the knowledge and skills to produce the yearbook. Students will gain experience in several components, writing, editing, layout, photography, marketing, use of graphics, and production using computer technology. Students enrolled in yearbook will be required to attend some evening events.

Computer Aided Design A (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


In this course, students will learn to design useful products by hand and using Computer Aided Design (CAD) for manufacturing or 3D printing. In this project-based course, you will apply technical skills and advanced computer software and hardware to create 2D and 3D drawings for engineering and art projects. The projects will include material selection, dimensioning, and multiple representations. Students will use 3D printers, laser cutters, and routers to build their final products for this course.

Computer Aided Design B (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite: Computer Aided Design A

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education


In this advanced course, students will learn to design and simulate entire machines and systems Computer Aided Design (CAD) using assemblies and collaborative design methods. Students will also learn to design more advanced parts using techniques such as surface tools, arrays, and automated design. In this course, students will apply technical skills and advanced computer software and hardware to create graphic representations for an advanced engineering or art project.

Manufacturing Fundamentals (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Science; Career and Technical Education


This will be a project-based course in which students will learn the basics of manufacturing using machines to safely cut, drill, shape, and join metal, plastic by hand, and with power metal working equipment for engineering and art projects. Students will learn design thinking, basic 2D and 3D drawing skills, tool skills, health and safety rules, manipulate materials, fabricate appropriate (physical or digital) parts, and measure and test parts for reliability. Students will learn the basic operations of digital manufacturing tools such as 3D printers, routers, and laser cutters. This course will also include supply chain management, and the ethics and social impact of manufacturing systems and processes.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite: Manufacturing Fundamentals or Computer Aided Design A

Graduation Requirement: Science; Career and Technical Education

This will be a project-based course in which students will learn the basics of manufacturing using machines to safely cut, drill, shape, and join metal, plastic by hand, and with power metal working equipment for engineering and art projects. Students will learn design thinking, basic 2D and 3D drawing skills, tool skills, health and safety rules, manipulate materials, fabricate appropriate (physical or digital) parts, and measure and test parts for reliability. Students will learn the basic operations of digital manufacturing tools such as 3D printers, routers, and laser cutters. This course will also include supply chain management, and the ethics and social impact of manufacturing systems and processes.

Robotics (Grades 9-12; 1 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Science; Career and Technical Education

This course prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in developing and using industrial robotics. Includes instruction in the principles of robotics, design and operational testing, system maintenance and repair procedures, industrial robotics computer systems, PLC, and control language, specific system types and applications to specific industrial tasks, safety, and report preparation.

Pre-Apprenticeship Skills for the Trades (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Math; Career and Technical Education

A program that prepares individuals to apply and enter an apprenticeship program usually as an apprentice. Includes instruction in the use of tools, general skill knowledge of the various trades, physical strength requirements, blueprint reading, general safety practices, math and communication skills.

Visual Communications (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Fine Arts; Career and Technical Education


This is an introductory level course that explores the methods used to communicate visually. We begin with graphic design and use Adobe programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere and After Effects to create our works of art. The class is structured around the three stages of production, pre-production, production and post-production. Through this course students will explore their artistic identity as well as gain a deeper understanding of storytelling. This course is the prerequisite for Animation Tech.

Animation Technology/Video Graphics & Special Effects (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Prerequisite(s): Visual Communications

Graduation Requirement: Fine Arts; Career and Technical Education


This course will cover basic video production with strong emphasis on 3D and motion graphics. Students will manipulate text, images and video during the post-production process to dynamically tell stories. In addition, students will develop the basic fundamental skills to visually engage the viewer through special effects normally seen only on high end movies. Students will also develop 3D models of objects which can be used for advanced projects in the professional world or 3D printed. Students will have the opportunity to follow the pathway that inspires them. Each of these pathways is articulated with a course at Highline College so students will have the opportunity to earn dual credit (high school and college) if they create and submit a portfolio meeting college level standards.

TV/Broadcasting Journalism Technology (Grades 9-12; 1 credit)

Graduation Requirement: English; Career and Technical Education

This course focuses on the theories, methods and techniques used to plan, gather information, writing, and present information in print, audio, and video. The course will prepare individuals in the fields of reporting, writing, marketing, planning, distribution, and management. Includes instruction in media aesthetics; planning, writing styles, facilities management, marketing, distribution, media regulations, copyright law and policy.

Photo Journalism (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education; Fine Arts

This course focuses on the process of managing the creation, publication, and distribution of print and electronic books and other text products and prepares individuals to manage the editorial, technical, and business aspects of publishing operations. Includes instruction in product planning and design, editing, author relations, business and copyright law, publishing industry operations, contracting and purchasing, product marketing, electronic publishing and commerce, history of publishing, and professional standards and ethics. (up to 180 hours)

Personal Fitness Technician (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Physical Education; Career and Technical Education

A program that prepares individuals for employment in health and fitness clubs, wellness centers, public and private recreation facilities, hospitals and corporate fitness programs where they will perform a variety of instructional and administrative duties. Includes instruction in human anatomy and physiology, fitness techniques, exercise science, personal training, nutrition, and customer service.

Early Childhood Education & Services (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

In Early Childhood, Education and Services students learn knowledge, skills, and practices required for careers in Early Childhood, Education and Services. The course focuses on the provision and management of child care services and prepares individuals to plan, design, and manage child care facilities and programs that meet children's developmental needs and interests and that provide safe and healthy environments.

Exploring Early Childhood (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

A program that focuses on the intellectual, social, emotional and biological development of children and the planning and design of related human services. Includes instruction in parent-child relations: parenting practices; special needs of children; parental and environmental influences on child development; external support services and related public policy issues.

Family Health (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

Family Health is designed to prepare students for life-long decision making, problem solving, critical thinking, and management skills related to health and wellness issues impacting families. The primary role is enabling students to assume an active role in developing healthy lifestyles for themselves and others. Students will earn a CPR certification in the course provided that they meet all of the benchmarks that have been established. This course focuses on the interrelationships of healthy choices and a productive, satisfying life.

Foods & Related Culinary Arts Foundations (Grades 9-12; 0.5 Credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

A program that focuses on the general study of cooking and related culinary arts, Includes instruction in food preparation; cooking techniques; equipment operation and maintenance; sanitation and safety; communication skills; applicable regulations; and principles of food service management.

Culinary Arts/Chef Training (Grades 9-12; 0.5 credit)

Graduation Requirement: Career and Technical Education

Culinary Arts prepares individuals to provide professional chef and related cooking services in restaurants and other commercial food establishments. The course includes instruction in recipe and menu planning, preparing and cooking foods, supervising and training kitchen assistants, the management of food supplies and kitchen resources, aesthetics of food presentation, and familiarity or mastery of a wide variety of cuisines.