Career and Technical Education

The district proudly concluded an outstanding CTE Month with a memorable celebration at the annual CTE Teacher Night, honoring the educators who drive career-connected learning across campuses.

Career Cluster Champions and Years of Service Milestone Makers were recognized alongside the many CTE teachers who consistently prepare students for industry certifications, college pathways, and high-demand careers. Your dedication to equipping students with real-world skills continues to exemplify the promise of skills for success, careers for life.

This year’s celebration was both energizing and meaningful. Highlights included the crowd-favorite Sweet Treat Showdown and an inspiring keynote address from international speaker Tisha Richmond, whose message reinforced the power of innovation and purpose in education.

While CTE Month has officially concluded, the momentum and impact of these programs continue every day in classrooms and industry partnerships across the district.

During CTE Month, campus administrators across the district recommended outstanding educators who exemplify excellence. These teachers represent the very best of Career and Technical Education—leaders who deliver rigorous, industry-aligned learning experiences and prepare students with the knowledge, technical skills, and professional competencies needed for success beyond graduation.

Please join us in recognizing this year’s honorees:

• Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources: Sarah Galloway, Seagoville

• Architecture & Construction: Salvador Becerra, Adelio Williams Career Institute East

• Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications: Christopher Morris, W.W. Samuell

• Business, Marketing, and Finance: Kiona Archie, Sunset & Rita Jones, Conrad

• Education and Training: LeAnn Little, W.T. White

• Engineering: Michelle Okura, Hillcrest

• Health Science: Liyah Joseph, Adelio Williams, Career Institute East

• Hospitality and Tourism: Paula Lewis, Lincoln

• Information Technology: Tom Grau, H. Grady Spruce

• Law and Public Service: Betty Wafer, Roosevelt

• Manufacturing: Rex Lees, Conrad

• Middle School: Michael Keeton, E.D. Walker & Elena Cardoza, School for the Talented and Gifted in Pleasant Grove

We are also proud to recognize our first-ever CTE Administrator of the Year Award, a distinction nominated by CTE teachers in recognition of exceptional leadership and support of CTE programs across campuses.

CTE Administrator of the Year: Eric Jordan, Adelio Williams Career Institute East

These educators and leaders embody the mission of expanding access, elevating instruction, and ensuring students graduate prepared with skills to be successful.

From first bite to final vote, Skyline brought the flavor, presentation, and championship energy.

Congratulations to Chef Danyelle Carpenter and her talented students for earning the 2026 Sweet Treat Showdown title at the Dallas ISD CTE Teacher Night culminating event.

It was a close competition, with so many creative and delicious desserts on display throughout the evening. A big thank you to all the campuses that participated and brought their best to the table—your talent, presentation, and competitive spirit made the Sweet Treat Showdown a true highlight of the night.

We proudly recognize our CTE educators who have reached significant milestones in their years of service—from 5 to 35 years of dedication to students and our district. Each milestone represents countless lessons delivered, certifications earned, opportunities created, and lives impacted.

We thank these educators for their sustained commitment to excellence!

Students in the Graphic Design, Floral Design, and Radio/Television & Multimedia programs of study are gaining authentic, first-hand industry experience that extends far beyond the classroom. What begins as concept development and client pitching evolves into full-scale production—design execution, pre- and post-production, and final installation. Students are completing the entire creative cycle and showcasing their talents on a grand scale—and they did not disappoint.

If you have attended any major CTE event this year—whether hosted by our department or in partnership across the district—you have seen their work firsthand. From promotional campaigns and branded event décor to custom floral installations, digital graphics, recap videos, and post-event collateral, these programs are the creative engine behind the experience. The visual identity, atmosphere, and storytelling that define our events would not be what they are without their talent, precision, and execution.

Through these experiences, students are applying technical skills, project management, collaboration, and professional execution to deliver polished, real-world results.

Participating campuses include:

Graphic Design

• Adamson High School, led by Michelle Celis

• Seagoville High School, led by Teresa Carrasco

• Skyline High School, led by Devon Nassif & Travis Ballard

Radio/Television & Multimedia

• Skyline High School, led by Blake Mokate & Jason Awalt

• New Tech High School, led by Trenton Starks

Floral Design

• Skyline High School, led by Shawn Coyle

The district is incredibly proud of these students/programs and the dedicated teachers who guide them through every phase of the process. Time and again, when opportunity presents itself, these programs rise to the challenge.

The Middle School Career Exploration Showcase connected students directly with real industries, real tools, and real professionals, creating an engaging and hands-on learning experience.

Thousands of middle school students had the opportunity to:
• Build and test projects
• Engage with business leaders
• Explore skilled trades
• Connect with high school CTE programs
• Ask questions directly to industry professionals

This kind of early access is critical. Exposure builds confidence, broadens perspectives, and helps students begin to envision their future pathways.

The district extends sincere appreciation to the industry partners, business leaders, volunteers, and high school campuses who invested their time and expertise to make this experience possible.

A special thank you to the Radio, Television & Film program students who captured the energy of the day and produced an outstanding event recap video. Be sure to check it out!

During Career and Technical Education Month, Dallas ISD CTE proudly participated in this year’s STEM Expo — a districtwide celebration of innovation, critical thinking, and student achievement.

In CTE, we specialize in hands-on, experiential learning, and the STEM Expo provided the perfect platform to demonstrate that work in action. Our programs showcased how career-connected learning moves beyond theory and into application. From engineering design and robotics to health sciences, digital media, aviation, computer science, and beyond, programs engaged attendees through interactive demonstrations that highlighted the technical skills and real-world competencies they are developing every day.

We extend our sincere appreciation to every campus and program that participated. Thank you to our dedicated educators, talented students, and valued partners who continue to advance and elevate Career and Technical Education across Dallas ISD.

Bryan Adams High School recently held its annual Defense Day, a culminating requirement for all CTE seniors and a pre-requisite for graduation. During this experience, students formally defend what they learned in their program of study and explain how they earned their College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) point.

Seniors present before a panel of industry experts, articulating their skills, certifications, and career goals. The format challenges students to clearly communicate the “why” behind their learning and demonstrate their readiness for life after high school.

Defense Day not only strengthens students’ confidence and professionalism, but it is also a great honor for panelists who have the opportunity to hear students confidently defend their growth and career preparation.

Career Institute North recently hosted Impact Day, powered by NFTE (Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship) in partnership with EY (Ernst & Young). More than 100 EY interns and college students joined Entrepreneurship students for a high-energy day of mentorship, feedback, and authentic conversation.

Students had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas, receive direct feedback on their ventures, and engage in meaningful discussions about pathway success and college life. Both sessions were filled with energy, genuine dialogue, and visible excitement as students confidently shared their ideas.

From the smiles to the thoughtful mentorship, the EY interns showed up in a powerful way—making a lasting impression on students. The experience also opened the door for future collaboration, with plans to begin organizing earlier next year and potentially leverage the partnership as a coaching opportunity for students advancing to the Hilltop Competition.

Impact Day exemplified what happens when industry partners invest in students—confidence grows, ideas sharpen, and real connections are formed.

At Adelio Williams Career Institute East – Architecture and Construction, student learning extends far beyond the classroom. During the recent ice storm, HVAC student Lenin Robles put his training into action when his family’s heating system suddenly stopped working.

Drawing on the troubleshooting techniques he developed in class, Lenin began diagnosing the issue independently. When the repair required additional guidance, he contacted his instructor, Jerrence Garrity, who walked him through the next steps over the phone.

With a combination of classroom knowledge and instructor support, Lenin successfully restored heat to his home — keeping his family safe and warm during the freezing temperatures. His quick thinking and technical skill exemplify career-connected learning in action and the real-world impact of CTE programs at CI East.

Students in the Practicum of Architecture and Interior Design at the Charmaine and Robert Price Career Institute South recently completed the LEGO Tower Project under the guidance of Erik Lugo. This hands-on architectural modeling experience challenged students to apply design thinking, engineering principles, and creative problem-solving in the development of detailed tower and site models.

Throughout the project, students incorporated structural planning, scale modeling, interior layouts, and professional presentation skills. Their finished models will be showcased at the upcoming Architecture Design Exchange (ADEX) and entered into the regional Art of Architecture contest and exhibition, which encourages students to study and creatively interpret the visual aspects of architecture. Last year, CI South proudly had three towers place in the model category, setting a strong standard for this year’s submissions.

The program continues to benefit from the support of valued industry partners, including Peter Goldstein (Co-founder of Citylab), Adriana Guisa (ADEX), Alfred Sierra, AIA (Perkins&Will), and Edwin Montoya-Cruz, AIA (WRA), who have visited campus to provide professional feedback and mentorship.

The School of Business & Management at Townview recently hosted its 1st Annual Real Estate Career Fair, led by Marcus Nickerson and the FBLA officers. The event brought together industry professionals and students for an engaging and impactful experience.

The day featured an insightful industry panel moderated by Ms. Keesha Moore of Onyx Legacy, followed by a dynamic career fair connecting students directly with real estate professionals. Students gained valuable exposure to career pathways, industry expectations, and entrepreneurship while building their professional networks.

Students from the NAF Academy of Engineering at Bryan Adams High School and Hillcrest High School recently participated in impactful work-based learning experiences that connected classroom instruction to real-world engineering systems.

Both campuses toured the Dallas Central Wastewater Treatment Plant, where students gained technical insight into large-scale infrastructure and environmental engineering. Bryan Adams students had the opportunity to network with professional engineers from Carollo and the City of Dallas, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating strong professionalism throughout the visit.

Hillcrest students were equally engaged, praising their guide, Rodney, for delivering an informative and interactive experience. They were surprised by the extensive safety systems integrated throughout the facility and were especially fascinated by the role of anaerobic bacteria in the water treatment process. Students also expressed appreciation for plant employees who remain onsite during winter storms to ensure uninterrupted operations. Many shared that they wished they had more time to explore the facility.

In addition to the wastewater plant visit, Bryan Adams AOE students also participated in a work-based learning experience at the Dallas U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). During this visit, students explored the intersection of engineering, innovation, and intellectual property law, gaining a broader understanding of how ideas move from concept to protection and commercialization.

Students in the NAF Academy of Engineering at Hillcrest High School recently engaged in a hands-on learning experience that highlighted innovative design and technical application.

Ninth-grade engineering students applied their design skills in a creative, project-based assignment. Using Autodesk Inventor, students developed 3D digital models of custom popcorn buckets, focusing on precision, measurement, and structural design. They then brought their concepts to life using the Academy’s new Bambu Labs 3D printers, successfully producing physical prototypes of their designs and celebrating their work with fresh popcorn.

This project blended digital modeling, engineering principles, and real-world production processes, reinforcing critical thinking and problem-solving skills while preparing students for future pathways in engineering.

Engineering students at Woodrow Wilson High School delivered an outstanding performance at a recent Aerial Drone Competition, competing against 31 teams and earning top honors.

Dronelution360 – All-Around Champion (7th Consecutive Year)
Qualified for the Championship in Frisco

• Anthony Vargas

• Tyler Amaya

• Esteban Salcido

• Kendall Johnson

DronelutionX – Communications Mission Champion
Qualified for the Championship in Frisco

• Landon MacDonald

• Jack Busby

• Jacob Vargas

Both teams showcased advanced technical expertise, strong teamwork, and outstanding professionalism—further reinforcing Woodrow Wilson’s legacy of excellence in engineering and competitive innovation.

The School of Health Professions at Townview held its inaugural HSHP Cluster Extravaganza, bringing energy and excitement to campus as 11th- and 12th-grade Health Professions and Health Science students hosted a day of mentorship and exploration for 9th- and 10th-grade scholars preparing to select their pathways.

Designed as a meaningful “passing of the torch,” the event gave underclassmen a hands-on look at upper-level coursework and real-world healthcare skills. Student leaders guided demonstrations, shared insights about advanced classes, and highlighted how each pathway connects to dual credit, industry certifications, and high-demand careers.

More than a course selection event, the Extravaganza celebrated HSHP Pride, leadership, and career-connected learning in action. Students left with clarity, confidence, and excitement about their future in Health Science.

As part of CTE Month, Skyline High School’s Cosmetology and Barbering Program hosted a special “CTE Week” experience, welcoming staff and guests into their lab for hands-on services and real-world learning.

Throughout the week, students provided facials, manicures, shampoo styles, and beard trims in a live clinic setting, gaining valuable client experience while demonstrating their technical skills and professionalism. The event allowed students to apply classroom instruction in an authentic environment focused on customer service, communication, and industry-standard practices.

Members of the CTE team took full advantage of the opportunity to support students and experience the program firsthand. As reflected in event photos, students confidently showcased their abilities and the high-quality training they receive in the Barbering and Cosmetology pathway.

Students in the Bryan Adams Leadership Academy Culinary Arts practicum, led by Chef Lockley and Ta’Reell Ewing, recently partnered with Bayles Elementary for a meaningful day of mentorship, service, and hands-on learning.

As part of the Bryan Adams vertical alignment, Bayles scholars will one day continue on to Bryan Adams—making this experience a powerful “future pathway” moment. What began as a catering event transformed into an interactive cooking lab where high school seniors guided sixth graders through food preparation and protein variations, allowing them to step into the role of chef for the day. Each student left with a recipe, certificate of completion, and chef hat to commemorate the experience.

Meanwhile, the BA Bistro practicum class provided a full-service catering experience for Bayles staff, demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and ownership from start to finish.

With encouraging words from Principal Miguel Campuzano and Executive Director Ryan Bott, the day highlighted leadership, service, and the power of students pouring back into their community—an authentic example of CTE in action.

Roosevelt High School’s Culinary Arts students are stepping into the spotlight as they prepare to compete in the annual Kids Teaching Kids Healthy Snack Competition.

Representing the program are Samantha, Jalil, and Lonnie, who created their original recipe, the “Enchanting Broccoli Smoothie.” As part of the competition, students develop a nutritious snack and produce a video tutorial teaching others how to recreate their dish—blending culinary skill, nutrition education, and presentation techniques.

We wish them the very best as they represent Roosevelt and showcase their creativity and culinary talent in competition.

As part of their practicum experience, Thomas Jefferson’s Culinary Arts students participated in a specialized field lesson at Sur La Table, focused on mastering the art of French macarons.

The experience challenged students with this advanced pastry technique in preparation for the upcoming Sweet Treat Showdown competition. During the intensive three-hour course, students explored the precision required for macaron production, including temperature control and the environmental factors that can cause the delicate dessert to fail.

Students from North Dallas High School earned impressive recognition in the 2026 Congressional App Challenge, showcasing innovation, technical expertise, and creative problem-solving.

Second Place – “Efflorescence”
An app designed to quickly provide detailed information about flowers for educational and practical use.
Team Members:

• Tristan Calvez

• Abby Castro

• Abigail Jimenez

• Damian Romero

Third Place – “Tic Tac Toe with a Twist”
An educational app that requires students to correctly answer math questions before earning a move in a game of tic-tac-toe.
Developer:

• Enrique Alcala

In addition to their competitive success, North Dallas students had the distinguished honor of meeting U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, congresswoman for Texas’s 30th District, whose office supports the Congressional App Challenge and represents much of the Dallas area.

Congratulations to all of our students who have competed in their respective Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) this season.

We extend a special acknowledgment to those students advancing to State and National competitions. Representing your campus and district at the next level is a significant accomplishment and a testament to your hard work and commitment to excellence.

We wish each of you the very best as you continue your competitive journey and proudly represent your programs on the state and national stage.

Teachers, the FIRST ROUND of Industry-Based Certification (IBC) testing must be completed by March 13. Please ensure all eligible students are scheduled and prepared to test prior to the deadline.

Be sure to upload documentation for all students who pass. A step-by-step guide is available on the EduThings one-pager.

Teachers, don’t forget to check the Dallas ISD CTE Certification Center website regularly! The site is your go-to resource for the latest tools and resources related to industry-based certifications.

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