CTE Programming Offered:
Students at CHEC have the option to join one of eight CTE pathways. In addition to project-based learning coursework and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, CHEC CTE students will hear from guest speakers, participate in field trips to industry sites, and complete paid internships.
Computer Science
Computer Science prepares students for career opportunities in an expanding computer science and digital workplace. Students will learn a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence.
Internship Opportunities: WMATA, District Dept. of Transportation, iStrategy Labs
Cosmetology
Students in the cosmetology pathway are exposed to opportunities in nail technician, aesthetician, and hair styling career options. The program discusses theory and clinical instruction in professional ethics, sanitation, human anatomy, facials, skin care, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails, haircutting, hair coloring, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, and all phases of hair care. Emphasis is also placed on job seeking/keeping skills, such as effective communication, customer service, teamwork, filling out a job application, building a resume, and interviewing techniques.
Certification: District of Columbia Cosmetology Operator
Early Childhood Education (Child Care & Development)
The Early Childhood Education pathway will teach students the aspects of teaching and working with young children, from birth through elementary age. Students will explore career options and develop the characteristics of successful teachers and childcare providers through practicums. Applying theoretical concepts to real-life situations, students are able to take what they have learned in the classroom to their rotation experiences where they learn how to meet the developmental needs and interests of young children.
Certification: Child Development Associate (CDA)
Engineering
Engineering answer the acute need for STEM professionals in the US by educating high school students in the principles of engineering and providing exciting learning in the fields of electronics, biotechnology, aerospace, civil engineering, and architecture. Through classroom topics such as 3-D modeling, animation, mobile device applications, and coding, students will be prepared to develop solutions in a multitude of platforms and programming languages.
Internship Opportunities: Accenture, Pepco, ART Engineering, LLC
Certifications: Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in AutoCAD
Finance
In the Finance pathway, students will gain knowledge and skills in economies and private enterprise systems, the impact of global business, the marketing of goods and services, advertising, and product pricing. Students will analyze the sales process and financial management principles. They will take courses in business, marketing, finance, and economics, and accounting.
Certifications: Intuit QuickBooks Certified User, Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel
Hospitality & Tourism
The Hospitality and Tourism pathway at Columbia Heights Education Campus, prepares high school scholars to excel in college and compete in the global workforce. The field of hospitality and tourism is one of the world’s largest and DC’s fastest growing industry. The pathway engages students by using Hospitality and Customer Service as a lens through which everyday problems are analyzed, approached and solved. The CTE scholars enjoy personalized learning experiences; with staff focused on individual specific college and career aspirations.
Internship Opportunities: Destination DC, Marriott Hotels
Certifications: ServSafe, Customer Service, Guest Service Professional, Front Desk Representative
Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC)
JROTC provides student the motivation and skills to think critically and creatively, communicate effectively, work as a team member, graduate from high school, pursue meaningful careers especially in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and become successful citizens. As a JROTC Cadet, students embark on one of the most interesting and valuable educational experiences of their high school career. The program provides students with tools and skills they need to succeed in high school and in life after high school.
Teacher Education & Training (Bilingual)
The Teacher Education & Training program emphasizes the need to provide students with a foundation for understanding and working with learners, specifically bilingual learners. The Teacher Education pathway focuses on planning, managing, and providing education and training services and related learning support services. Students will examine the nature of cross-cultural understanding and knowledge through two tracks within the program.
Certification: ParaPro Certification
