CTE Programming Offered:
Students at Ballou have the option to join one of five CTE pathways. In addition to project-based learning coursework and the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, CTE students will hear from guest speakers, participate in field trips to industry sites, and complete paid internships.
Audio/Video Production
The A/V Production pathway prepares students for visual imaging including television/video production, podcast, web design and music/audio recording. Students will learn the to use video cameras and edit video in Adobe Premiere Pro. Students learn to communicate effectively by writing scripts, storyboards, project planning, and introductory audio and visual editing.
Internship Opportunities: CNN, iHeartRadio, Accenture
Certifications: Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Premiere Pro
Automotive Technology
Automotive Technology gives students knowledge of the major automotive systems and the principles of diagnosing and servicing these systems. The program prepares students for a varied automotive industry that requires skills in math, science, communications, and technical abilities.
Internship Opportunities: DARCARS, Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association
Certifications: ASE Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification
Computer & Information Technology (Computer Maintenance Technician)
Students will develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning to develop technical solutions in a multitude of platforms and programming languages. The Academy will prepare them for careers in the following areas: programming, database administration, web design and administration, digital networks, and other areas in the expanding digital workplace.
Internship Opportunities: Accenture, Pepco
Certifications: CompTIA IT Fundamentals+, CompTIA A+
Culinary Arts
The Culinary Arts pathway emphasizes the principles of planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling the management of a variety of food service operations. The pathway features a blended coverage of culinary arts and management topics designed to build well-rounded skills for the workplace.
Certifications: National Restaurant Association ServSafe Manager, National Restaurant Association ManageFirst Professional® (MFP), and Prostart Level I and II
Hospitality & Tourism
Students will develop skills in professional communication, leadership, management, human resources, technology, and accounting. They will learn what it takes to adapt to a fast-changing career in areas such as lodging, travel and tourism, recreation, amusements, attractions, and food & beverage operations.
Internship Opportunities: Destination DC, Marriott Hotels
Certifications: ServSafe, Customer Service, Guest Service Professional, Front Desk Representative