What is Career and Technical Education (CTE) in PGCPS?

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs of study help students gain the skills, technical knowledge, academic foundation, and real-world experiences they need to prepare for high skill, high- demand, and high-wage careers.

CTE prepares both youth and adults for a wide range of careers. These careers require varying levels of education—from high school and postsecondary certificates, to apprenticeships, or two- and four-year college degrees. Students add value to their overall education by completing CTE programs of study. CTE programs provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials and college credit while still in high school.

What is the difference between a CTE program of study and a locally developed program of study?

CTE programs of study are Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) approved completer programs.

A completer is a Maryland State graduation requirement. Students may receive a completer through one of the following:

• Two credits of world language or two credits of American Sign Language;
• Two credits of advanced technology education; or
• Successfully complete a state approved career and technology program.

 *Locally developed programs DO NOT provide completer graduation credit.

Can students complete a PGCPS CTE program of study and meet all of the course requirements for college entry?

YES! Students electing to complete a CTE Program as part of their high school program are prepared for entry into college and a career pathway. To see industry recognized certifications, licensure and credentials, CLICK HERE.

How can students participate in PGCPS CTE programs?

 Apply Here: http://www1.pgcps.org/career-techinical-education 

• All comprehensive high schools offer at least one CTE program of study.
• 3-year and 4-year CTE programs are offered to students at their boundary school. Students register through their Professional School Counselor.
• All students are eligible to attend 2-year programs.
  • A transfer to a regional CTE center based on student residency may be required. (See School Finder for your nearest location: http://gis.pgcps.org/schoolfinder/findschool2.asp)
  • Transportation is provided.
  • 2-year application opens in mid-October and closes March 12th.  

• Dual enrollment, transcripted, and articulated college credits
• Advanced Placement courses
• Certifications and industry recognized credentials
• Work-based learning and internship opportunities
• Student organizations and clubs that allow students to test their skills against peers and provide leadership development
• Scholarships

We are glad you asked! CCRIP offers access to graduating high school with an Associates Degree and High School Diploma at the same time through our Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program.

Key Elements of the P-TECH Model

• Grades 9-14 that must lead to an Associate Degree
• Open enrollment with no cost to students
• Students earn an industry-recognized certification in health information management or hospitality management.
• Mentoring and paid internships
• “First in Line” consideration for employment with industry partners
• Steering committee that includes higher education, industry partners, and PGCPS

How can students participate in the P-TECH Program?

• Available to current 8th grade students (students who will be 9^th graders in school year 2018-19) in the Frederick Douglass High School International Baccalaureate Program (IB Boundary)
• Transportation is provided.
• Application will open in January 2018 -  http://www.pgcps.org/career-technical-education
• Letters will be sent to students eligible to participate in the program.
• Lottery-based admission

P-TECH School Location
Frederick Douglass High School
8000 Croom Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Program Coordinator: Dr. Kisha Dorch