Career & Technical Education Programs
Career Technical Education (CTE) courses provide students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge, and training necessary to succeed in future careers. CTE classrooms are unique as they provide classroom instruction along with developing work-related skills. CTE also provides opportunities for student leadership and growth as students have the opportunity to participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). We currently offer 11 programs on our high school campus and we encourage those interested to learn more about our programs.

CTE Standards

• AgriScience

• Architectural Drafting

• Business Management

• Coding

• Construction

• Digital Printing

• Digital Photography

• Early Childhood

• Film and TV

• Graphic Design

• Law and Public Safety

• Early Childhood Education

This program is designed to help our Seniors spend time in the workforce and allow students to experience actual demands and expectations found in the workplace, to realistically investigate a professional field, and empower them to graduate with a foundation for their future. This program will require the participation of students, parents/guardians, employers, and school administration. 

The Criteria for this program are as follows:

Students:

1. The student must be a Senior and on track to graduate 

2. Students must have completed a CTE program. 

   Example: Two years of the Construction program will qualify you to participate. *** (See further explanation below)

3. Students must fill out an application, sign the student agreement, take part in an interview process, be on track to graduate, and have good behavior and attendance.  After completing the application process, students will be notified when they are approved. Upon approval into the program, students must find employment.

4. Students must have employment by the start of the Fall semester with a licensed employer who is willing to participate in the program. Ideally, this is a paid position, but volunteer hours are also encouraged.

5. Students must be comfortable with technology. They will keep daily logs digitally, fill out the application digitally, and upload paystubs.

6. The student is responsible for his/her transportation to the workplace.

7. The hours worked will count toward high school credit. A minimum of 4 hours per. If you qualify for more hours off-campus, more hours will be required for work.

8. Credit earned for the work portion of the STW program is .5 credits each semester

9. Payroll stubs or copies of the stubs will be filed with the Hour and Wages Report to verify the number of hours students work and will be monitored by the coordinator. 

10. Students must follow the high school attendance policies. Attendance will be monitored by the STW coordinator and will affect the student's ability to earn credit.  Paystubs will be used to verify attendance.

11. Students are required to conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner and cooperate with the policies of the employer.

12. Students must work for the employer for the duration of the 2025-2026 school year. If there is a need to terminate employment or the student quits, they will be required to return to the high school campus and the classroom. 

13. Students are required to check in bi-monthly with the STW coordinator and complete an academic plan each semester.

Parents:

1. Commit to supporting the student, employer, and STW coordinator

2. Contact the coordinator regarding all questions/concerns about the Student-to-Work experience.

3. Ensure your student has adequate transportation.

Business Employer-Mentor:

1.  Abide by Federal, State, and Local regulations regarding employment, job duties, and the provision of an equal opportunity employer.

2. Understand and enforce Child Labor Laws and provide general safety guidelines to the work environment.

3. Understand that once a position is accepted, a commitment has been made to the student learner unless a serious situation arises or there is a need for termination.

4. Exercise confidentiality regarding information gained during the Student-to-Work Program experience.

5. Assist in the evaluation of the student-learner.

6. Contact the coordinator if any problems arise regarding the student-learner

7. Work with the coordinator to mutually agree to transfer or withdraw the student when he/she deems such actions to be in the best interest of those concerned.

8. Must be willing to sign all documents required.

Coordinator:

1. Ensure the enrollment of the student-learner into the Student-to-Work Program.

2. Periodically correspond with the student-learner and the Business Partner Employer-Mentor in order to aid in the student-learner's development.

3. Consult with the Business Partner Employer-Mentor in the evaluation of the student-learner.

4. Ensure that the Snowflake high school attendance policy is being followed.

5. Ensure students are entering work logs.

6. Ensure students are meeting the goals of the academic plan.

7. Verify that credit has been earned each semester.

• Please contact Mrs. West with any questions. camaleew@snowflake.k12.az.us

Agriscience
We study the application of science and technology to the industry of agriculture in this program. To put it simply, we learn about plants and animals! We learn about forestry, how to take soil samples, plant propagation, hydroponics, entomology, and how to determine crop needs. We participate in many activities at several different locations in Arizona. There are several leadership conferences we attend, and we compete in different events, including judging horses and livestock. Each student has the opportunity to join Future Farmers of America (FFA). Please take a look at the FFA Facebook page for more information.

Ag
The AgriScience instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: agribusiness systems, animal systems, biotechnology systems, environmental service systems, food products, and processing systems, natural resources systems, plant systems, power, structural and technical systems, and agriculture education.
For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• AgCareers.com

• Simply Hired

• University of Arizona - College of Agriculture & Life Sciences

Architectural Drafting

The Architectural Drafting program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to develop working drawings and electronic simulations for architectural and related construction projects. The architectural drafting program includes instruction in basic structural design, architectural rendering, and architectural-aided drafting (CAD). Instruction will also include layout and designs, architectural blueprint interpretation, building materials, and basic structural wiring diagramming.

The Architectural Drafting instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: Architectural Related Services, Engineering Related Services, Residential Building Construction, Employment Services, Nonresidential Building Construction, Building Equipment Contractor, Architectural and Structural Metals Manufacturing, Foundation Contractor, Structure Contractor, Building Exterior Contractor, Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services, Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support, Other Wood Product Manufacturing, Veneer, Plywood, and Engineered Wood Product Manufacturing, Management of Companies and Enterprises, Building Finishing Contractors, Household and Institutional Furniture, Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturing, Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities, and Land Subdivision

Business Management and Administrative Services (BMAS)
BMAS is a Career and Technical Education program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in business with technical office skills and familiarization of office management. The program includes semesters of introductory business concepts, keyboarding, Microsoft Office Suite software, marketing, office management, computerized accounting (using QuickBooks), customer service, developing a professional image, and successful job application skills.

The Business Management instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: administrative services manager, assistant manager, business executive, business manager, business owner, business supervisor, buyer, cashier, claims adjuster, examiner, and investigator; compensation and benefits manager, compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialist; cost estimator, customer service manager, customer service representative, economist, employment specialist, food service manager, fundraising manager, general manager, human resources manager, human resources specialist, information clerk, insurance sales agent, insurance underwriter, loan officer, lodging and hospitality manager, logisticians, management analyst, management consultant, meeting, convention, and event planner; operations manager, operations research analyst, personnel manager, production manager, property, real estate, and community association manager; purchasing agent, purchasing manager, real estate broker, real estate sales agent, retail manager, retail sales worker, sales manager, teller, and training and development manager.

For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• Five Careers for Business Management Degree Graduates

Coding I

The Software and App Design (Coding I) instructional program prepares students to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills to support engineers in developing, implementing, and evaluating computer software and program applications.  Throughout the Software and App Design instructional program, students learn how to program, programming languages, databases, user interfaces, networking and warehousing, encryption and security, software testing and evaluation, and customization.

The Software and App Design ( Coding I) instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: Certified Professional, Coder, Coder 1, Coding Specialist, Coding Technician, Help Desk, Technician/Manager, Information Architect, IT Designer, PC Technician, Program Analyst Systems Analyst, Software Developer, Software Tester Intern, Systems Operations Specialist, Technical Sales Representative, Technical Support, Technician/Manager, Technology Intern, and UI/UX Designer

Construction
In this program, students learn the safe use of tools and equipment; legal and ethical issues; and the ability to read and apply construction drawings and codes. We introduce students to residential construction including site layout, concrete and masonry, and floor layout. Students also learn framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, installation of doors and windows and application of finish and trim work. Our advanced courses offer training in all areas with an emphasis on blueprint reading, communication skills, leadership skills, and conducting a job search. To learn more and keep up to date with the latest construction news, please view the construction website.

The Construction Technologies instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: nonresidential building construction, residential building construction, building equipment contractor, foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors, other specialty trade contractors, building finishing contractor, utility system construction, highway, street, and bridge construction, architectural, engineering, and related services, executive support, legislative support, other general government support, metal ore mining, administration of economic program, electric power generation, transmission and distribution, land subdivision, other heavy and civil engineering construction, remediation and other waste management services, water, sewage and other systems.

For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• Arizona State University Engineering Program

• Arizona Department of Economic Security - Apprenticeship Office

Digital Photography

The Digital Photography instructional program prepares students to use technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images that communicate information, convey ideas, moods and feelings, tell a story, or record an event. Students who successfully complete the Digital Photography program’s coherent sequence of instruction will develop an in-depth understanding of the operation and maintenance of professional-grade digital cameras and specialized photographic equipment; natural, on-camera, off-camera, and modified lighting; image composition; and the use of computers and specialized software to record, enhance, and manipulate digital images. Digital Photography students will explore the history and societal and economic impact of the digital photography industry and will examine legal and ethical considerations and business best practices unique to digital photography and related industries. Throughout the Digital Photography instructional program, students learn and practice valuable real-world skills using professional-grade digital cameras and industry standard image editing software to create high-quality media products.

The Digital Photography instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: Advertising Art Director, Advertising Photographer, Art Director, Commercial Photographer, Digital Marketer, Editorial Photographer, Event Photographer, Fashion Photographer, Fine Art Photographer, Food Photographer, Forensic Photographer, Freelance Photographer, Medical Photographer, Multimedia Specialist, Nature Photographer, Newspaper Photographer, Photo Editor, Photo Historian/Archivist, Photo Restorer/Retoucher, Photo Studio Owner/Operator, Photographer, Photojournalist, Portrait Photographer, Product Photographer, Real Estate Photographer, School Photographer, Scientific Photographer, Sports Photographer, Stock/Microstock Photographer, Travel Photographer, Web Content Manager, Wedding Photographer, and Wildlife Photographer

Digital Printing

The Digital Printing program prepares students to manage digital printing operations from initial design to finished product distribution. Students will understand the maintenance of specialized printing equipment; proofing graphics files; creating print-ready graphics files utilizing applicable digital imaging, graphic design, and page layout techniques; and producing and distributing finished printed products that meet or exceed customer expectations. Students will also learn and practice valuable real-world skills using real-world digital printing equipment and industry-standard graphic design and page layout software to create professional-grade media products.

The Digital Printing instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: Art Director/Designer, Bindery Operator, Bookbinder, Computer Specialist, Copy and Print Associate, Cost Estimator, Customer Service Representative, Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, operators, and tenders; Desktop Publisher, Die Cutter/Foil Stamper Operator, Digital Color Press Operator, Digital Printer Operator, Direct Mail Coordinator, Electronic Prepress Operator, Estimator/Planner, Graphic Designer, Preflight Technician, Prepress Technician, Prepress Worker, Press Manager, Press Operator, Pressman, Print Binding and Finishing Specialist; Print Production Worker, Printer, Printing Machine Operator, Printing Press Operator, Printing Sales Representative, Production Planner/Scheduler, and Screen Printer

Early Childhood
In this comprehensive course, students explore child development from conception through third grade, gaining a deep understanding of physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. They study key child development theories from Piaget, Erikson, Gardner, and Vygotsky, while also learning about prenatal hazards, child nutrition, and best practices in early education.

Hands-on experience is a vital component of the class. First-year students participate in a baby simulation lab, where they care for electronic infants that assess their caregiving skills. Second-year students apply their knowledge in a preschool setting, while third-year students have the opportunity to engage in student-to-work programs.

Throughout the course, students develop essential skills such as lesson planning, classroom management, and child safety. They also earn valuable certifications, including CPR/First Aid, and can obtain a fingerprint clearance card. Additionally, students have the opportunity to take the Praxis-Paraprofessional exam, further preparing them for a future in early childhood education.

This program equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in early childhood education, whether as teachers, caregivers, or child development specialists.

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to prepare students for employment in early childhood settings. The Early Childhood Education program includes instruction in child growth and development, child health, nutrition, safety, planning, and supervision of developmentally-appropriate practices and learning activities. Child guidance, family relationships, parenting, and applicable legal and administrative requirements are also addressed. Preparation for the development and management of effective early childhood programs and facilities is included.

Film and TV
During the four years that students take IDM I and Film and TV, they learn about the history and development of radio, television, and film. Students learn how to use computers to manipulate and create multimedia projects for digital storytelling, video production, and photojournalism. The class is run as a convergent media newsroom. Students prepare for careers in television production or electronic journalism. They utilize studio equipment, a studio control room, field and location equipment, and advanced broadcast production. We emphasize professionalism, work ethic, and a strong journalistic approach.
Film and TV I, II, III and Broadcasting are offered at SHS! Students learn how to properly operate and maintain equipment (camcorders, microphones, computers, etc.) Basic filmmaking principles (shot sizes, camera angles, storyboarding, scriptwriting, cutting on action, matching on action, and production schedules and more) will be taught. Students will collaborate in groups to complete some projects. Broadcasting students produce a weekly video for the high school on YouTube called The Lobo Howl. Students prepare for careers in television production or electronic journalism. We emphasize professionalism and work ethic. This class is interactive, creative, exciting, and challenging. Students will never view another film the same way!

The Film and TV Production instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: actor, announcer, art director, assistant director, audio engineer, audio technician, best boy, board operator, boom operator, broadcast and sound engineering technician, broadcast engineer, broadcast journalist, broadcast news analyst, broadcast operations engineer, broadcast technician, camera operator, cameraman, composer, correspondent, costume designer, digital imaging technician, director, director of photography, film and video camera operator, film and video editor, film editor, filmmaker, floor director, gaffer, grip, hair stylist, lighting technician, line producer, location manager, location scout, makeup artist, master control operator, media specialist, news anchor, news editor, non-linear editor, online editor, producer, production assistant, production coordinator, production designer, production manager, prop master, reporter, scenic artist, screenwriter, script supervisor, set decorator, social media specialist, sound designer, sound engineer, sound mixer, special effects coordinator, special effects.

For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• Career Addict - The 20 Best Careers in the Film Industry

• Careers in Film

Graphic Design
In our program, students will learn how to create professional designs by having drawing exposure and experience to various art illustration styles. Students will also learn to create layout designs and practice basic art and design elements as well as using Adobe graphic programs. This course refines student’s skills learned in art, as well as graphic design, and stresses portfolio production for scholarship and career opportunities.
Students will learn to use Adobe Illustrator as well as Photoshop to create logos, t-shirts and digital coloring for Illustrations. They will also have the opportunity to compete in SkillsUSA for ad design as well as pin and t-shirts designs. 
In our Graphic Design program, we introduce students to creating business cards, greeting cards, and advanced techniques that will help improve their designing skills. Students learn to use Photoshop, create web pages, and learn skills that are necessary for a career in multi-media.

The Graphic Design instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: advertising associate, art director, creative director, creative services director, design consultant, desktop publisher, desktop publishing specialist, digital designer, freelance designer, front end developer, graphic artist, graphic designer, graphics specialist, illustrator, logo designer, marketing and promotions manager, marketing coordinator, marketing developer, marketing specialist, multimedia designer, package designer, prepress technician, press operator, product designer, production artist, production manager, publication designer, social media specialist, user experience designer, visual designer, web design specialist, web designer, and web developer.

For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• Graphic Communications Education Foundation

• The Art Career Project

• Rasmussen College

Law and Public Safety
We will study various aspects and integral parts of the United States Constitution, Arizona civil and criminal law, the court system (judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, stenographers, defendants), and different types of law enforcement agencies, to include federal, state, county, and municipal. Students will have the opportunity to learn basic concepts of law and public safety in the classroom along with lab (hands-on learning/scenarios) such as mock traffic stops, arrest procedures, mock traffic collision investigations, and mock crime scene investigations (homicide). Our goals include students learning to seek their own voices and opinions of current events as it relates to law enforcement and public safety, students gaining an adequate comprehension of the law and how it applies to them as a citizen in the state of Arizona and in the United States of America.

The Law and Public Safety instructional program prepares students for entry-level employment, further training, and/or post-secondary education for these and other occupations: criminal justice and law enforcement teacher, investigation and security service, intelligence analyst, loss prevention managers, protection officer, and asset protection specialist.

For more information, we invite you to check out the websites listed below.

• Occupation Outlook Handbook - Police and Detectives