Highlights from the HACTC - Feb. 5

February 17-21: No School; Winter Recess

Cosmetology has been bustling these last few months, serving many clients in the HACTC Salon. Students have also participated in more styling contests - "Whoville," where they styled a mannequin like a character from The Grinch, and their current project, "Love Is In the Hair." They've been spending time participating in FBLA work, focusing on teamwork, leadership, and career development.

Academically. level I students have continued learning and practicing upstyle techniques, long hair styling, and hair removal. Level II students are working through their final assessments in preparation to take their state board exams in May. They also have the opportunity to get more in-depth training in areas in which they'd like to specialize.

In IMW, level I students have been working on a variety of projects using the lathe, mill, and welding. They made personalized wall-mounted hat racks, standing lamps with scrollwork, and a chipping hammer with spiral handle.

In level II, students finished their table projects, used the CNC mill to create personalized wooden signs, and started learning about electrical circuits and panel installation. These students recently visited the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to learn about career pathways.

This year, HACTC students are working toward earning a total of 636 college credits, mostly through the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH).

The reality has shifted from CTE as a "vocational" track for students to a modern, flexible pathway offering valuable skills and experiences for every post-secondary pathway. This makes a CTE educational experience not only a relevant option for ALL students, but gives each of them a competitive advantage whether on a resume or a college application.