Career Technical Education (CTE) courses offer high school students invaluable opportunities to explore future careers across various sectors. At the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (COE), we are proud to offer high-quality CTE courses that allow students to earn both high school and college credits while meeting the UC A-G requirements. This year, we are thrilled to announce new course additions and expansions, providing even more paths for students to pursue their passions and career goals.
New Robotics Course at Sequoia High School
A significant addition to our CTE offerings this year is the Robotics course at Sequoia High School, led by Joby Engineer Tim Sylvester. Following the COE and X Academy Robotics team’s impressive third-place finish at the World Championships, Tim brings his enthusiasm and expertise to this new program. The course, held in a dedicated three-hour block on Wednesdays, gives students hands-on experience in robotics engineering. In their very first session, students constructed prototype ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and tested them in a portable pool at Sequoia. We’re excited to see how students will develop their skills and explore the possibilities of robotics throughout the year!
IT Essentials and Student Tech Support at Sequoia High School
Our ICT Career Pathway has also expanded to Sequoia High School with IT Essentials, led by instructor Greg McCarthy. This course gives students the foundational skills needed to build and maintain desktop computers, along with the exciting addition of a new, student-led Tech Support Program. By the end of the first semester, students will have built up expertise to tackle real-world tech support issues, handling tech tickets and providing hands-on support within the school.
Medical Terminology Course with Industry Pathways
In a joint initiative with Scotts Valley Unified School District, San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, and the Santa Cruz COE, our CTE team has launched a new Medical Terminology course hosted by Scotts Valley Middle School. Taught by our new instructor, Jonathan Sandoval, this year-long course introduces students to potential careers in Health and Sports Medicine. Through this course, students gain a foundational understanding of medical terminology and a deeper look into the health industry, sparking early interest in a field with many future opportunities.
Expanding the Culinary Arts Program at Costanoa High School
Our popular Culinary Arts program has now expanded to Costanoa High School, bringing our total sections offered to five! Led by Chef McKinzie and Chef Andrea, the program has grown into one of the most highly participated CTE pathways. Chef McKinzie’s passion for the culinary arts brings a farm-to-table approach to the classroom, with students actively using Costanoa’s garden to source fresh ingredients for their recipes. The Culinary Arts Pathway continues to cultivate student interest and participation, providing practical skills that can translate into exciting career paths in the culinary industry.
Looking Ahead: Expansion for 2025-2026
The Santa Cruz COE remains dedicated to expanding our CTE offerings. We are already planning for the 2025-2026 school year and will be working closely with our district partners to bring more valuable career exploration opportunities to our students. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow and enhance our CTE pathways!
We look forward to another inspiring year, filled with learning, discovery, and the building of skills that will help our students succeed in whichever career paths they choose.