Call to Action:

1. Advocate for districts to conduct comprehensive surveys to identify CTE programs that align with the unique needs and aspirations of their community.
2. Develop a District Master Plan aimed at delving into CTE integration from diverse angles, fostering a holistic approach to its implementation.
3. Emphasize the pivotal role of a dedicated CTE director who spearheads initiatives with passion, recognizing the transformative impact CTE can have on both students and educators alike.

Abstract: The successful integration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) into more traditional high school curriculums is a continually evolving concept, and it requires careful planning, innovative design, and a commitment to flexibility. Through careful study of both student and program needs, school districts, administrators, and architects together can create dynamic learning environments that both introduce and prepare students for many different post-secondary career pathways. With a collaborative approach and forward-thinking design, the value of specialized program spaces can be woven into the everyday learning experience. This visibility empowers students to discover and explore a broad range of both college and career opportunities, providing them with the critical tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Located in the rural yet quickly growing town of Johnstown, Colorado, Weld County School District RE-5J materialized their aspiration for an integrated CTE high school in 2023 with the construction of their new 230,000 square foot Roosevelt High School. Pairing clear and consensus-driven CTE strategic initiatives with design principles that celebrate both innovation and pragmatism, a new model for comprehensive high school education was born. Using the new school as a practical case study, we will showcase how alignment between the district and the community resulted in CTE programming that is a true reflection of its local context while providing students with multiple relevant career pathways. With a focus on real-world experiences and a unique design process, we’ll discuss the importance and methods of early collaboration and stakeholder engagement, the fundamental role their dedicated CTE director played, and how Roosevelt High School adapted to various challenges and truly capitalized on the benefits of CTE integration. This session provides actionable insights for educators, administrators, and architects seeking to enhance CTE initiatives, implement big ideas, and provide a path to success and preparedness for all students.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn methods of comprehensive outreach in identifying CTE programs that align with the unique needs and aspirations of the community.
2. Understand how the development of a district-wide master plan focused on CTE integration can result in a holistic and deeper approach to its implementation.
3. Explore how to weave history and culture into a facility that stitches program and community together.
4. Learn unique challenges that a specialized educational planning approach presents, including demonstrated ways to adapt and capitalize.
5. Understand the pivotal role of a dedicated and driven CTE director in the design process and beyond.