Career & Technical Education

The Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs offer our Newton Public School students unique opportunities to explore a variety of career fields. Through a comprehensive sequencing of technical and academic courses, students develop a solid foundation of knowledge and 21st century skills essential for a smooth transition to college/university and or the workforce. During the students’ CTE program experience, they will access, analyze, and synthesize information, create and problem solve using critical and innovative thinking skills as well as collaborate in teams, develop leadership skills and enhance their communication skills. Additionally, students who participate in CTE programs develop an individual Career Plan designed to help them make informed choices, now and for their futures.

Upon graduation, students will be prepared to pursue a four or two-year college education, technical training apprenticeships, and/or enter the workforce. In addition to their high school diploma, students who follow a CTE program through to the completion of Major 3 receive a certificate of completion in the CTE program of study, They may also earn an OSHA 10 Certification, First Aid and CPR, and an industry recognized certification. All 7 of the Newton Public Schools CTE programs are Chapter 74 approved, meaning they meet rigorous state and federal requirements including 900 hours of study in the field.

All CTE programs are regularly reviewed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Chapter 74 programs are required to meet a minimum of 900 hours. To meet this requirement the number of hours increases with each year in the program. Accordingly, the number of credits increases to correspond with the time commitment. For example:

Major 1: the amount of time in this course is equivalent to the same amount of time as all full year course
Major 2: the amount of time in this course is equivalent to 2 full year courses plus 1 WIN block for 1 semester
Major 3: the amount of time in this course is equivalent to 3 full year courses plus 1 WIN block for the full year

Admission Application Form

Exploratory Program

The first course in the sequence of a CTE program is called Exploratory Program. During this course a student “explores” the career area while developing the necessary foundation of competency-based knowledge and skills as well as safety fundamentals in the technical field of interest. During the Exploratory Program, students research a variety of occupational and career information using an assortment of Internet platforms, and begin to create and develop an individualized Career Plan.

Exploratory is open to grade 9 and 10 students

Major 1

Students who have successfully completed the Exploratory Program course and would like to continue their education and training in the chosen CTE program apply to pursue Major 1; students are graded on a MA state approved rubric to determine admittance to Major 1. During Major 1 students enhance and expand on the foundation of knowledge and skills established in exploratory. Students continue to develop their career plans, and learn the value of a strong work ethic while focusing on skills necessary for the 21st century. Career planning at this level requires students to explore career information in the chosen CTE program and related fields, and earn a Safety Training Certificate. Major 1 courses meet three blocks per week for the full year. Students in Major 1 will be registered for one WIN per period for one semester.

Major 1 Application:

To apply to a CTE program as a Major 1, students need to have placed well according to the Exploratory Program Rubric, passed Safety Training in Exploratory, received the teacher’s recommendation and complete the CTE program application. For applications see the CTE teacher, counselor, CTE office in room 125 or refer to the form above.

Major 2

Major 2 is the next course in the sequence of a CTE program of study and is for students who want to cultivate their knowledge and skills in the field of study, who have successfully completed Major 1, and who have been recommended by the teacher. During Major 2, students apply and strengthen their knowledge and skills by engaging in real-world experiences in their CTE learning environment.

Students in Major 2 will be registered for one WIN period for the year and Career Wellness (PE033); this PEHW course includes First Aid, Safety and CPR and is incorporated into the scheduled Major 2 course blocks. This PEHW course meets a graduation requirement and is also a requirement to be eligible for a cooperative education work-place learning experience in the second semester of grade 12/Major 3.

Major 3

For students who have developed a genuine interest in the CTE program, who have successfully completed Major 2, and who have been recommended by the teacher, Major 3 is the last course in the sequence of the CTE program of study. Students refine their foundation of academic knowledge and technical competency skills.

Students in the Major 3 will be registered for one WIN period for the year and Entrepreneurship (860) in the fall semester of grade 12 (with exception to those in Culinary Arts and Graphic Communications; it’s an embedded aspect of these two programs). Entrepreneurship is a requirement to be eligible for a cooperative education work-place learning experience in the second semester of grade twelve.

Students who complete Major 3 in a CTE program may be eligible to receive college credits through post-secondary articulation agreements at certain state schools when they continue their education in the career pathway. These credits are issued after the completion of the first semester of their post-secondary studies.

Honors Option for Major 2 & Major 3

Major 2 and 3 students may be recommended for the honors level by their teacher if they have demonstrated the following:

Interest, ability and motivation to meet the challenges of an honors level course.
The ability to be an independent learner in the program setting.
Aspirations for an advanced level of learning and critical thinking through more challenging assignments, coursework and learning opportunities.
Assistance with program/shop management.
The ability to simultaneously handle multiple projects.
Desire to take on complex projects and be held to a higher standard of quality.
Commitment to complete projects before or after school when necessary.
Leadership and collaborative teamwork skills to coordinate a team of students to complete a group project.

Career & Technical Education Cooperative Work Experience

CTE co-op work experience is available to students in Major 3. The cooperative education work placement offers students an additional learning dimension to their educational experience and is designed to apply and expand their knowledge and skills with an authentic work experience in the professional community. This is a paid, supervised, instructional experience that is directly related to the student’s CTE program. A student’s day is divided between their academic studies and their worksite training. Students are eligible for a cooperative education workplace learning experience second semester of their senior year if they fulfill the course requirements, demonstrate an 80% or better proficiency in their competency skills, have a good attendance record, demonstrate a strong work ethic, are in good academic standing, successfully earn their OSHA 10 Certification for safety, completed their Career Plan, and received the recommendation of their teacher.

NOTE: The Massachusetts Community Colleges approved a statewide Articulation Agreement in 2014 in 14 vocational technical fields to provide a seamless transition for students. The programs offered by the Newton Public Schools with articulation to the community college system include: Automotive Technology, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Drafting, and Early Education & Care (Early Childhood Education). The information can be accessed on the Massachusetts Association of Community College site.

CTE Programs

Automotive Technology

For students interested in taking apart and building, the Automotive Technology program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills required to meet the growing demands of today’s automotive industry. Students will learn to diagnose, service and repair both domestic and foreign automobiles. Using the latest engine analyzers, hand-held scanners, and computerized diagnostic equipment students will learn how to troubleshoot problems of all kinds. Our program is nationally certified by NATEF (National Automotive Technical Education Foundation).

Automotive Technology Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Automotive Technology

Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 8801

Exploratory students acquire the fundamental knowledge and understanding of the basic automobile systems including the use of tools and equipment, and safe workplace practices

Automotive Technology Major 1

Prerequisite: Exploratory Automotive Technology and teacher recommendation. Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Full Year, 12 Credits
Level: ACP
Course Number: 8821

Major 1 offers students an opportunity to build on, and expand the foundation of competency skills they developed in the Exploratory Program.

Automotive Technology Major 2

Prerequisite: Automotive Technology Major 1 and teacher recommendation. Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Full Year, 24 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 8831/88341

Major 2 is the continuation of the Automotive Technology program of study continuing to prepare students to work in the field or attend college.

Automotive Technology Major 3

Prerequisite: Automotive Technology Major 2 and teacher recommendation. Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Full Year, 36 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 8841/88441

Major 3 students will be able to work independently; they will have developed their leadership and customer service skills and demonstrated a high proficiency level with their competency skills.

Carpentry

The Carpentry program is designed to provide students the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in entry-level positions in the Carpentry and Construction Industry. Students begin their learning by completing standard and required projects; simple maintenance and repair of school property as well as custom client projects may be worked on. By graduation, students will have learned applications of technology in the construction field, basic home construction, and home interior remodeling.

Carpentry Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Carpentry

Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 8871

Exploratory students will develop entry-level skills, operating hand held tools and an understanding of safe and proper methods as well as the safe use and handling of hand tools.

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts Program is a fun and engaging way for students to explore their passion for food preparation and cooking. The program provides students with knowledge and competency in the areas of Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Baking, and Pastry-Making. Students gain authentic food preparation, front-of-the-house management, hospitality skills and the importance of teamwork as they operate our on-campus Tiger’s Loft Bistro. Students have the opportunity to practice professional table service, banquet, and catering services during special events hosted by the Tiger’s Loft. The Culinary program may be where you find your own recipe for success!

Culinary Arts Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Culinary Arts

Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 9021

Exploratory students will develop and apply basic food service principles as well as kitchen safety and sanitation codes.

Culinary Arts Major 1

Prerequisite: Culinary Arts Exploratory and teacher recommendation. Requirement: Proper dress and footwear.

Full Year, 12 Credits
Level: ACP
Course Number: 9051

Major 1 students will continue to build and fine tune their culinary skills in the Tiger’s Loft Bistro.

Drafting

Do you like designing spaces, creating things, or figuring out how stuff works? Ever thought about careers like architecture, landscape design, interior design, engineering, or industrial design careers that combine creativity with strong earning potential? If that sounds like you, Drafting is a great place to start. Drafting is the skill that turns ideas into reality. It’s how designers, engineers, and builders create the detailed drawings and plans that show exactly how something will be built or manufactured. Drafting turns ideas into visual instructions that guide the creation of everything from buildings to machines. A simple way to think about it: if it was built or manufactured, it was likely drafted first. This program helps you learn the essential skills used across tons of exciting careers. The Drafting Program allows you to transform ideas from your imagination into realistic three-dimensional computer models.

Drafting Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Drafting

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 91111

In Drafting Exploratory, you’ll jump right into designing 3D spaces and objects using three industry-standard programs: Autodesk Revit® & Inventor® and Lumion ®.

Early Education and Care

Have you ever wanted to work with children? Do you enjoy being around little ones? Do you babysit a lot or have younger siblings that you just can’t figure out? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Early Education and Care may be for you! Experience the world of young children and the field of Early Education and Care up close and personal in our full day toddler/preschool center program where students can experience a wide range of early childhood experiences through a series of courses. The Early Education and Care program is a comprehensive training program that allows students to experience the world of young children and the field of early education and care up close and personal. Students study developmentally appropriate practices that contribute to a safe and nurturing learning environment for young children. Students learn about the growth and development of young children, responsibilities of the EEC teacher, and the importance of a professional attitude. Students also learn how to create and implement developmentally appropriate materials and activities into the daily curriculum at our onsite child care center.

Early Education and Care Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Child Development

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 8941

Exploratory students will study the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical domains of early child development.

Early Education and Care Major 1

Prerequisite: Exploratory Child Development and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 12 Credits
Level: ACP
Course Number: 8951

Major 1 Students will continue to build knowledge and skills by working with and studying children in the preschool classroom setting.

Early Education and Care Major 2

Prerequisite: Early Education and Care – Major I and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 24 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 8961/89641

Major 2 students will alternate weeks of studying and developing early childhood curriculum in the academic classroom along with working in the toddler/preschool early childhood classroom setting.

Early Education and Care Major 3

Prerequisite: Early Education and Care – Major 2 and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 36 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 8971/89741

Major 3 students build on the competencies they were exposed to as Major 2s.

Graphic Communications

The Graphic Communications program teaches professional, transferable skills in the art, design, media and communication industry. The Graphic Communications program uses industry standard equipment such as screen printing, digital color and black & white, vinyl heat transfer, and large format printing. Students design and produce communication materials using the latest Adobe Creative Suite software and Macintosh computer hardware. Integral to the program is live production work that allows students to improve their technical skills and trains students in customer service and business-related procedures.

Graphic Communications Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory Graphic Communications

Semester, 6 credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 9321

Exploratory students will be introduced to a variety of graphic communications techniques.

Graphic Communications Major 1

Prerequisite: Exploratory Graphic Communications and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 12 Credits
Level: ACP
Course Number: 9341

Major 1 students will build on the skills and techniques developed in the exploratory class.

Graphic Communications Major 2

Prerequisite: Graphic Communications – Major 1 and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 24 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 9351/93541

Major 2 students will produce client work, design calendars, program brochures, posters, and work on larger scale projects (saddle stitched brochures, marketing programs with multiple pieces) that cover all aspects of the industry.

Graphic Communications Major 3

Prerequisite: Graphic Communications – Major 2 and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 36 Credits
Level: ACP, H
Course Number: 9361/93641

Major 3 students will focus on working independently and working with clients.

TV Media Arts

Have you ever wondered what goes into creating your favorite TV show or what it takes to be a Reporter, Director, Producer or Editor? TV Media Arts will give you the ability to explore these roles while telling stories through a visual medium. The TV Media Arts program provides students the opportunity to develop the necessary skills to develop into creative professional media artists using state of the art industry standard multimedia equipment; students work with images and sounds to inform, persuade, and entertain their viewers.

TV Media Arts Opportunities

CTE
No Prerequisite or Recommendation

Exploratory TV Media Arts

Semester, 6 Credits
Level: N/A
Course Number: 1731

Exploratory students are given the opportunity to develop into creative professionals and media artists, working with moving images and sounds to entertain, inform, and persuade viewers using state-of-the-art multimedia equipment.

TV Media Arts Major 1

Prerequisite: Exploratory TV Media Arts and teacher recommendation.

Full Year, 12 Credits
Level: ACP
Course Number: 1751

Major 1 students engage in a variety of projects while building on skills learned in the previous level of the program.

Dental Assisting Program

The Dental Assisting Program is an exciting career path designed to prepare students with knowledge and hands-on skills to become valuable members of a dental health team. Students are exposed to all aspects of dental assisting including appointment scheduling, patient charts, and legal obligations of the dental team. Emphasis is placed on infection-control, dental radiology, chairside dental assisting, dental materials, and dental specialties. Students learn administrative duties such as inventory control, record keeping and office procedures. Foundational knowledge and skills acquired will be built upon as students continue to develop techniques and skills learned in the lab/classroom and clinical sites. The clinical and administrative skills learned prepare students for many challenging professional employment opportunities in private and group practices as well as pursuing a related post-secondary education.

It’s possible for students to earn multiple Industry Related Credentials including preparing for the Dental Assisting National Board Infection Control Certification.

Exploratory Dental Assisting

*** THIS PROGRAM WILL BE LOCATED AT THE NEWTON SOUTH CAMPUS Transportation will be provided to bring students to and from South.

Course Number	Length	Credits	Level
9811	Semester	6	N/A

The exploratory course is designed to give students an introduction to the dental industry and explore the many career paths within this field. The course content includes an introduction to the fundamentals of patient care by studying anatomy and physiology, with an emphasis on head, neck, oral, and dental anatomy.

Health Assisting Program

The Health Assisting Program is an excellent choice for students interested in entering the high-demand field of health care and human services. This program provides students with the opportunity to learn about careers in the field of health care and gives them the training and expertise necessary to work in the health care industry. An introduction to Electrocardiography and Phlebotomy and other medical related sciences are integrated into the Health Assisting curriculum. Through classroom and clinical experiences, students learn about conditions of human health and disease and related treatment and care. The program prepares students to take the Massachusetts Department of Public Health certification exam for Nurse Assistants (CNA certification) and a thirty hour Home Care Aide certification. Graduating Seniors are well prepared for continued post-secondary health-care studies as well as entry level positions in the industry.

Exploratory Health Assisting

Course Number	Length	Credits	Level
9781	Semester	6	N/A

The exploratory course is designed to give students an introduction to the health care industry and explore the many health careers within this field. The course content includes an introduction to basic anatomy and physiology, human growth and development, nutrition, medical terminology, common medical conditions, infection control, ethical and legal issues, safety and mobility, and specific skills associated with patient care.

Information Support Services & Networking (ISSN)

Technology is changing the world be live in at a rapid pace, bringing new economic and social opportunities to even the most remote corners of the world. These opportunities are increasing global demand for information and communication skills through the use of technology. The ISSN program will train students in the use and maintenance of computer systems in today’s high-tech environment. Students will be provided with the knowledge and training to prepare them for entry-level employment opportunities in the Information Technology industry as well as prepare students who want to pursue their studies at a post-secondary college/university. The ISSN graduate will leave with practical knowledge of analog and digital electronics as well as a solid background in the field of data communications, which includes network design, routing and switching, and network maintenance and operation. Students will learn to build, upgrade, maintain, and troubleshoot smart phones, laptops, desktop PCs and local network systems/servers. They will study how to diagnose and repair complex computers, systems and hardware. Students will also learn to configure software security programs that protect sensitive information in the ever-changing cyber world. This program will prepare students with the foundations to achieve a variety of IT certifications.

Exploratory ISSN

*** THIS PROGRAM WILL BE LOCATED AT THE NEWTON SOUTH CAMPUS Transportation will be provided to bring students to and from South

Course Number	Length	Credits	Level
9241	Semester	6	N/A

Students will review the history of the computer industry and see how innovations of today such as social networking, cloud computing, e-commerce, web-conferencing and desktop virtualizations are changing our daily lives. Students will also discuss the ethical issues involved in the technology world. Students will be exposed to an expansive number of concepts so that they can be knowledgeable about the variety of careers within this field. These concepts include: computers and digital basics, computer hardware and software, operating systems, local area networks, the Internet, web design and development and e-mail, digital media, and computer programming.

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