Career and Technical Education

We’re thrilled to share that Career Institute South students took first place at the Junior Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 competition on October 17th! Representing Dallas ISD with skill and determination, senior Juan Gonzalez from Molina High School served as the bricklayer, alongside his tender, Baldemar Valdez, an 11th grader from South Oak Cliff High School.

Together, Juan and Baldemar clinched the top spot, winning $200, a masonry “mud tub,” and a prize package filled with essential supplies. This impressive victory qualified them to advance to the national competition in Las Vegas this summer, where they’ll compete against the best in the country.

Their instructor, Mr. Kevin Ruiz, guided the team in preparing for this achievement, showcasing the talent and hard work of Dallas ISD’s CTE students. For more details on this exciting event, check out the Junior Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 and the 2024 North Texas competition.

Congratulations to Juan, Baldemar, and Mr. Ruiz!

Eight students in the Manufacturing practicum course and six in the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics practicum course at Career Institute South recently took on an exciting F1-themed challenge.Tasked with identifying a key issue that drivers might face at the upcoming Formula 1 race at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, TX, on October 18-20, 2024, the students focused their project on aerodynamics analysis, a critical factor in race performance.

A panel from MoneyGram and the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team reviewed each team’s proposal. Impressively, Career Institute South's team scored the highest, earning them an invitation to attend the exclusive MoneyGram Haas F1 event. On October 16, 2024, the team had the opportunity to meet with Formula 1 Driver and Team Principal Ayao Komatsu, as well as drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen, at Highland Park High School's Indoor Practice Facility.

Congratulations to the Career Institute South team on their impressive achievement!

Zhantell Quigley from Operation Tiny House recently visited CI East and was inspired by the students’ enthusiasm and talent. Zhantell was excited to take the collaboration further, sharing ideas that will be introduced in the classroom. She also gifted journals to each student to encourage daily writing, which will be incorporated into their lessons. We look forward to more exciting projects with Operation Tiny House and CI East!

Career Institute East was thrilled to host Traci Thompson from Parkland Hospital as our Industry Partner for a Day! A valued partner who regularly hires our graduates, Traci had the unique opportunity to step into the role of “Principal for a Day” and see firsthand how our students develop workplace-ready skills.

Throughout the day, Traci engaged with students across various training programs, observing the hands-on preparation that equips them for their future careers. She even got to showcase her radio talents, embracing her role as principal, and shadowed our Assistant Principal through different scenarios.

We’re grateful to Traci for dedicating her time to connect with our students and staff—it was an inspiring experience for everyone involved!

When students at Career Institute East expressed interest in forming a masonry team, their teacher, Charlie Diaz, eagerly supported the idea. With guidance from Ashton at the Texas Masonry Council, the students began learning masonry techniques and building their skills. Their excitement grew when they heard about the opportunity to compete in the Bricklayer's 500 contest.

Although the team had only been training for a few weeks, they jumped into the competition with enthusiasm. While they didn’t take home a win this time, the experience taught them valuable lessons in masonry techniques and teamwork. The students are now more motivated than ever and can’t wait to gear up for their next competition!

The 2024 Career Institute North Open House welcomed over 100 families, making it a memorable and engaging event. Designed to captivate and inform, the open house surpassed expectations as parents, students, and siblings explored the campus, participated in interactive activities, and discovered the unique programs available at CI North. From hands-on demonstrations to insightful sessions, the lively atmosphere was contagious, sparking curiosity and excitement among attendees.

One of the day’s highlights was the enthusiastic response from parents, many of whom asked, “Can we do it too?” The event clearly inspired a genuine interest not just in students but in their families as well. The open house was filled with exploration, learning, and a strong sense of community, showcasing the incredible opportunities CI North has to offer!

It was an exciting day for Career Institute North Architecture and Interior Design students at Gresham Smith! They dove into "Architecture 101" with two architects and an interior designer, exploring key concepts and current projects in healthcare, aviation, and transportation.

Students learned how design enhances community well-being and sustainability, reflecting Gresham Smith's commitment to "Genuine Ingenuity." They even got the chance to apply for scholarships!

The tour of the Gresham Smith office showcased a collaborative environment, with students amazed by a 3D printed model in progress. Students also enjoyed an engaging Q&A session about the realities of working in the field.

The trip was not just educational; it connected classroom learning with real-world applications, inspiring the next generation of designers!

Career Institute North students had an incredible field trip to WRA Architects in Dallas, TX, diving deep into the world of architecture and interior design!

They met talented architects and designers who showcased a variety of ongoing and completed projects, especially in the educational sector. A standout moment was learning about the design process behind their own campus, Career Institute North, connecting classroom theory to their daily lives.

The office tour revealed the collaborative spirit of the firm, with students exploring different departments like marketing and BIM. Some even got a sneak peek at a fly-over video model for the upcoming Career Institute West project!

Students also participated in a design charette, applying their knowledge to conceptualize a school design. This hands-on experience brought the creative process to life, mirroring the professional practices they observed throughout the day.

This month, the Entrepreneurship students at Career Institute North put their creativity to work in a heartwarming community project. Led by teacher Rebecca Palmer, the students painted and decorated pumpkins, which they then donated to the residents of Treemont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in North Dallas.

The vibrant pumpkins brought smiles to the residents, who were touched by the students' thoughtful gesture. This meaningful project allowed students to give back to their community and connect with others in a special way.

The NFTE National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge 2024 brought together top young entrepreneurs from across the nation to compete in New York City’s Intercontinental Times Square. This year’s event featured 47 innovative student-led businesses, each consisting of one or two entrepreneurs, vying for the prestigious national title.

The competition was intense, with only 16 businesses advancing to the semifinals and three moving on to the final round. The NFTE South Region was proudly represented by five businesses, including four from Dallas ISD:

• Career Institute East: 2 businesses
• Career Institute North: 1 business
• Hillcrest High School: 1 business
  
  

Among the talented contenders, two Dallas ISD teams made it to the semifinals:

• Nathaniel Casas from Career Institute East - Night Catch
• Danimari Martinez & Brihana Herrera from Career Institute North - Bra Physics
  
  

Congratulations to these young entrepreneurs for their hard work, creativity, and dedication in representing Dallas ISD on the national stage!

Educators from the all three Career Institutes, Townview Health Professions, and Roosevelt High School gathered for a tour and orientation at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital in Dallas. Hosted by Dr. Art Signo, the hospital’s education director, the orientation prepared teachers for upcoming student clinical rotations at the hospital.

Throughout the rotations, students from all five campuses will gain hands-on experience, rotating through 15 different workstations where they’ll have the opportunity to shadow and assist hospital staff. This valuable experience will connect classroom learning to real-world medical practices, fostering practical skills and insights into healthcare careers.

Under the guidance of Law teacher Keith Jennings, Townview Law Magnet students have engaged in exciting opportunities through SkillsUSA programs.

Washington Leadership Training Institute:
Each year, students from across the country gather in Washington, D.C., for the Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI), where they network, explore, and advocate for SkillsUSA and Career and Technical Education. This year, two district officers and a state officer from Townview Law Magnet proudly represented Dallas ISD, meeting with Senator John Cornyn and Representative Jasmine Crockett on Capitol Hill. At WLTI, these officers earned the prestigious National Statesman award, which required them to complete an on-site interview and achieve both Career and Technical Education and SkillsUSA Framework certifications.

SkillsJAM and the JAMBassador Program:
SkillsJAM is a video production series that shines a spotlight on skilled trades and the excitement of the SkillsUSA Championships. Through the JAMBassador program, students have the chance to inspire others to pursue careers in skilled trades by creating engaging content and promoting these pathways. As JAMBassadors, they receive development training and gain access to paid social media opportunities, amplifying their role as advocates for skilled careers.

Through these experiences, students not only deepened their advocacy skills but also created lasting memories exploring Washington, D.C., and representing their peers on a national stage.

CityLab High School and Big Tex Urban Farms are excited to announce the continuation of their groundbreaking Urban Agriculture Internship Cohort, now entering its third year. This innovative program offers six graduating seniors annually the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the urban farming industry.

To qualify, students must be in their fourth year of the Energy and Natural Resources Pathway and have completed their Industry-Based Certification. During the internship, participants will apply their classroom knowledge by working with the cutting-edge hydroponic systems on campus. They will master critical skills such as balancing pH levels, monitoring electrical conductivity, harvesting, planting techniques, and more.

This internship exemplifies CityLab's commitment to providing real-world, sustainable agriculture experiences for students, preparing them to be future leaders in the growing field of urban farming.

CityLab High School, led by teacher Megan James, is at the forefront of sustainable and vertical farming initiatives within Dallas ISD, setting a new standard for urban agriculture education. Collaborating with esteemed partners such as Downtown Dallas, Inc., HortAmerica, and Big Tex Urban Farms. CityLab has developed the district's second mobile classroom—a hydroponic and sustainable farming trailer. This innovative unit pairs with Skyline High School's Aquaponics Trailer to offer a comprehensive approach to urban farming education.

The CityLab Greenhouse Trailer is available for guest speaking engagements at Dallas ISD campuses, local events, and outreach programs. Through hands-on learning, CityLab students grow, harvest, and prepare fresh produce for staff, families, and the surrounding community, fostering a deeper connection to sustainable living.

CityLab High School’s Urban Agriculture Program not only provides students with industry-relevant skills but also promotes community engagement and access to fresh, locally-grown produce. This initiative is driving the future of urban farming within Dallas ISD and beyond.

Hillcrest and Skyline High Schools' NAF Academies of Health Sciences recently visited UT Southwestern’s Animal Resources Center for an in-depth look at scientific research careers.

Julie Roller, Animal Care Manager, introduced students to the role of animals in supporting scientific discoveries, clarified common misconceptions, and highlighted career paths in this unique field. Dr. Ralph Callicott, the center’s Director and resident veterinarian, shared insights on critical research efforts, including cancer treatments, drug development, and environmental safety. Dr. Keisa Mathis also discussed her career journey, blending healthcare with teaching, and emphasized the importance of internships and mentorship.

Students toured the facility, observing why specific animals are used in various types of research and how they are carefully cared for:

• Rodents: Share a genome similar to humans, used extensively in research.
• Pigs: Key for cardiovascular studies.
• Rabbits: Important in eye research and antibiotic testing.
• Zebra fish: Vital for embryonic development studies.
• Primates: Studied for motor development insights.
• Dogs: Used in pulmonary and cancer research.

UT Southwestern has been a consistent supporter of Dallas ISD CTE programming through NAF academies, providing students with invaluable learning opportunities.

Skyline High School’s Family and Community Services program, led by Mrs. Roderika Ballard, recently celebrated the kickoff of its Chick-fil-A Leader Academy with an event on Wednesday, October 22. Students gathered for an afternoon of team-building activities and leadership development. During the event, students formed committees, elected ambassadors, and packaged 500 books to donate to local elementary schools as part of Chick-fil-A’s “100 Million Book Giveaway” initiative, aimed at promoting literacy nationwide.

The kickoff also gave students the chance to meet with Chick-fil-A employees to discuss the essential qualities and skills of effective leaders. A special thank you goes to Mr. Sam Wallis, Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Towne East Mall, for sponsoring the program for the second consecutive year. Mr. Wallis and his team have committed to prioritizing Skyline student job applications, with application details now available on Skynet, and students can apply via text or QR code. Plans are also in the works for on-campus job interviews and after-school career readiness training sessions.

The Chick-fil-A Leader Academy continues to provide valuable experiences for Skyline students, encouraging community service, leadership, and career development.

Skyline High School’s Fashion Marketing students recently showcased their dedication and professionalism by volunteering at Dallas Fashion Week. These talented students played a key role in helping to coordinate and run the event, gaining hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of fashion/event production. Their hard work and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed, and we couldn't be prouder of their contributions to the show’s success.

Congratulations to the Fashion Marketing students for their outstanding work and commitment!

Certification Testing Window(s)

Make sure to mark your calendars for upcoming certification testing periods. Stay tuned for more details on dates and deadlines.

Eduthings One-Pager

Don’t forget to use the Eduthings One-Pager as a key resource when preparing to submit certification outcomes. This guide offers essential steps to streamline your submission process!

We are thrilled to celebrate Michelle Celis, Digital Communications teacher and dedicated CTE leader, for being named Adamson High School’s Teacher of the Year. Ms. Celis has been an inspiring force in the classroom, empowering students develop industry-ready skills. Her passion for education and commitment to student success exemplify the heart of CTE programming and excellence across the board.

Join us in congratulating Ms. Celis on this well-deserved recognition!

We’re excited to announce that our Middle School Career Exploration Showcase is right around the corner! On November 19 & 20, 7th-grade students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of high school programs that align with their career interests and ambitions. A special shoutout goes to the following high schools that will be exhibiting their programs and providing students with valuable insights into future pathways.

Here's a look at the campuses and the number of Programs of Study they’ll be showcasing:

• Bryan Adams
• Career Institute North – 5 Programs of Study
• Career Institute South – 5 Programs of Study
• Career Institute East – 3 Programs of Study
• CityLab
• Conrad
• IDEA
• Kimball
• Lincoln
• New Tech
• Pinkston
• Samuell
• School of Education and Social Services at Townview
• School of Health Professions at Townview
• School of Business/Management at Townview
• Seagoville
• Skyline High School – 12 Programs of Study

We look forward to an inspiring showcase that will spark curiosity and excitement among our future CTE students!

Is your campus missing out? Contact Jess Borges today to find out how your campus can still participate in the exhibit.

CTE Budget Update:

CTE campus line code allocations for 2024-2025 are ready for your supplies, materials, and equipment needs. Submit purchase requests early to ensure timely delivery. If your program has a CTSO chapter, additional funds have been added to your line code for spring competitions.

Professional Learning Community (PLC):

Mark your calendars! Each career cluster will have a quarterly PLC to discuss relevant updates and share new resources.

• Quarter 1 PLC: Link to Presentation

• Quarter 2 PLC: Link to Presentation

• Quarter 3 PLC: January 28-30, 2025

• Quarter 4 PLC: March 25-27, 2025

For more information about your cluster PLC, reach out to your CTE Coordinator.

The October launch of the 2024 – 2025 Dallas ISD Internship Program was fulfilled with anticipation and collaboration from all stakeholders who play a pivotal part in the success of this initiative. Thank you to all students, admin staff, teachers, coordinators and parent/guardians who participated in several information sessions to learn more about the impact and journey in the internship process.

As a reminder, the Student Internship Interest Form, to include the Internship Commitment and Parent/Guardian Consent Forms, are due Thursday, October 31st.

Students are on the fast track to internships by beginning their internship preparation modules with WorkReady Academy. These modules were made available to students on Monday, October 21st to include the Dallas ISD Internship Orientation video and five modules that will get them WORKREADY!

Moving forward into the month of November, industry professionals who are interested in providing paid internship opportunities are cordially invited to the Internship Host Information Session. This one-hour virtual event is scheduled on Wednesday, November 13th at 11:30 a.m. Industry professionals will learn more about their role in the internship process and gain insight on the students who are interested in participating in this year’s program, along with their career interests.

Check out this important message from Shannon A. Green, Project Manager for the Workforce Development and Employer Relations Department, who manages the Dallas ISD Internship Program.

For more information about internships, please email Shannon A. Green at SGREEN1@dallasisd.org.

Looking for additional work-based learning opportunities for your students? Fill out the form to explore options that enhance career readiness, powered by the Dallas ISD Workforce Development Department.

Exploring the following offerings:

• Career Exploration
• Career Preparation
• Career Training

Don’t miss out—sign up today!

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