CTAE Pathways
Career pathways are state-approved, career-enhancement programs defined as a coherent, articulated sequence of rigorous academic and career-related courses usually commencing in the ninth grade and leading to a baccalaureate degree, an associates degree, and/or an industry-recognized certificate or licensure.
Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) provides all Georgia students with the opportunity to select at least three sequenced electives in a career pathway, along with recommended academic course work, to prepare them to continue their education at any level or enter the workforce.
Selection of a pathway will be based on self-awareness and the investigation of occupations, plus related educational levels aligned with the pathway. Most high-demand, high-skilled, high-wage occupations in all concentrations still do require education beyond high school. Implementation of career pathways is a collaborative effort between Gainesville City Schools, the Technical College System of Georgia and the University System of Georgia.
Pathways Offered
- Audio Video
- Computer Science
- Construction
- Early Childhood
- Engineering
- Entreprenuership
- Food and Nutrition
- Healthcare Science
- Law and Public Safety
- NJROTC
- Mechatronics and Robotics
- Marketing Management
- Sports and Entertainment Marketing
Audio Video
Course 1—Audio Video Technology 1
Students begin with basic introduction skills for the audio and video technology career field. A hands-on experience of equipment use, script writing for audio and video, production teams, production programming, lighting, recording and editing, and studio production will engage students throughout the first course.
Course 2—Audio Video Technology 2
Transfer skills learned in the first course to skills including writing, planning, directing, and editing a production. Go beyond the skills to field equipment function, operational set-up and maintenance, production graphics, audio and video control systems, and advanced computerized editing.
Course 3—Audio Video Technology 3
Through independent and teamwork tasks, student-led projects will be created to demonstrate mastery of all program content.
Computer Science
Course 1—Introduction to Digital Technology
Introduction to Digital Technology is the foundational course for Web & Digital Communications, Programming, Advanced Programming, Information Support & Services, and Network Systems pathways. Exposure to foundational knowledge in hardware, software, programming, web design, IT support, and networks are all taught in a computer lab with hands-on activities and project-focused tasks. Students will not only understand the concepts, but apply their knowledge to situations and defend their actions/decisions/choices through the knowledge and skills acquired in this course.
Course 2—Computer Science Principles
How can computing change the world? What is computer science? Engage your creativity, demonstrate and build your problem solving ability all while connecting the relevance of computer science to the society! Computer Science (CS) Principles is an intellectually rich and engaging course that is focused on building a solid understanding and foundation in computer science. This course emphasizes the content, practices, thinking and skills central to the discipline of computer science. The focus of this course will fall into these computational thinking practices: connecting computing, developing computational artifacts, abstracting, analyzing problems and artifacts, communicating, and collaborating.
Various forms of technologies will be used to expose students to resources and application of computer science. Professional communication skills and practices, problem-solving, ethical and legal issues, and the impact of effective presentation skills are enhanced in this course to prepare students to be college and career ready. Employability skills are integrated into activities, tasks, and projects throughout the course standards to demonstrate the skills required by business and industry.
Transfer skills learned in the first course to skills including writing, planning, directing, and editing a production. Go beyond the skills to field equipment function, operational set-up and maintenance, production graphics, audio and video control systems, and advanced computerized editing.
Course 3—To Be Announced
GHS is currently reviewing several options for the third class in this pathway. We currently offer AP Computer Science A as a third option.
Construction
Course 1--Industry Fundamentals and Occupational Safety
The course prepares the trainee for the basic knowledge to function safely on or around a construction site and in the industry in general and will provide the trainee with the option for an Industry Certification in the Construction Core. Minimum performance requirements for this core course, and throughout the three year curriculum, are based on the student’s successful completion of the modules according to the NCCER Occupational Standards.
Course 2--Introduction to Construction
This course offers an opportunity for students to build on their knowledge and skills developed in Industry Fundamentals and Occupational Safety. It introduces them to four construction craft areas and is also the second step towards gaining a Level One Industry Certification in one of the craft areas. The goal of this course is to introduce students to the history and traditions of the carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and electrical craft trades. Students will explore how the various crafts have influenced and been influenced by history. The student will also learn and apply knowledge of the care and safe use of hand and power tools as related to each trade. In addition, students will be introduced to and develop skills to differentiate between blueprints related to each individual craft area.
Course 3 – Carpentry 1
What is offered:
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Learn carpentry skills, knowledge of building materials, and techniques for reading and using blueprints
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Specific knowledge and skills in site layout, and floor and wall framing systems
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Proper handling of hand tools, power tools, and equipment used in framing systems
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National certification under the NCCER National Craft Worker Registry that could lead to immediate employment.
Course 3 - Masonry
What is offered:
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Learn masonry skills and knowledge related to types and properties of mortar and concrete mixtures
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Proper handling of hand tools, power tools, and equipment used in mixing mortar
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The ability to cut, lay, and finish concrete block and brick
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National certification under the NCCER National Craft Worker Registry that could lead to immediate employment.
Early Childhood
Course 1 –Early Childhood Education I
The course also provides a foundation for advanced study leading to postsecondary education and careers in related fields. The course addresses early childhood care and education and development issues that include guiding the physical, cognitive, creative, social, emotional, and moral development of children. This course of study includes planning and guiding developmentally appropriate practices for working with young children including career paths, principles and theories of child development, the creation of a developmentally appropriate learning environment, collaborative relationships and guidance, lesson planning, and appropriate response to cultural diversity and students with special needs.
Course 2– Early Childhood Education 2
The course provides a history of education, licensing and accreditation requirements, and foundations of basic observation practices and applications. Early childhood care, education, and development issues are also addressed and include health, safety, and nutrition education; certification in CPR/First Aid/Fire Safety; information about child abuse and neglect; symptoms and prevention of major childhood illnesses and diseases; and prevention and control of communicable illnesses. Craft projects, observations, and guest speakers used throughout the course for creating the lab environment.
Course 3– Early Childhood Education 3
The course provides in-depth study of early brain development and its implications for early learning, appropriate technology integration, and developmentally appropriate parenting and child guidance trends. Also addressed are collaborative parent/teacher/child relationships and guidance, child directed play, the changing dynamics of family culture and diversity, the causes and effects of stress on young children, and infant nutrition. This course is a practicum placement at Centennial or Joyland Child Development Center.
Engineering
Course 1 — Foundations of Engineering and Technology
A STEM driven course provides the students with an overview of engineering and technology including the different methods used in the engineering design process developing fundamental technology and engineering literacy. Students will demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have learned through various project based activities while using an engineering design process to successfully master the “E” in STEM.
Course 2 — Engineering Concepts
Students will learn to design technical solutions to engineering problems using a whole systems approach to engineering design. Students will demonstrate the application of mathematical tools, teamwork, and communications skills in solving various design challenges, while maintaining a safe work environment.
Course 3 — Engineering Applications
Students will apply their knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) to develop solutions to technological problems. Solutions will be developed using a combination of engineering software and prototype production processes. Students will use market research, cost benefit analysis, and an understanding of the design cycle to create and present design, marketing, and business plans for their solutions.
Entreprenuership
Course 1--Introduction to Business & Technology
Students will learn essentials for working in a business environment, managing a business, and owning a business. Students will be prepared to be successful both personally and professionally in an information-based society.
Course 2--Legal Environment of Business
Students enrolled in this course should have successfully completed the first course in the pathway Introduction to Business & Technology. This course addresses statutes and regulations affecting businesses, families, and individuals. Students will get an overview of business law while concentrating on the legal aspects of business ownership and management.
Course 3—Entrepreneurship
Students will be exposed to the development of critical thinking, problem solving, and innovation in this course as they will either be the business owner or individuals working in a competitive job market in the future. Integration of accounting, finance, marketing, business management, legal and economic environments will be developed throughout projects in this course.
Food and Nutrition
Course 1 – Food, Nutrition, and Wellness
Food, Nutrition and Wellness is the foundational course in the nutrition and food science pathway. The focus of the course is centered on healthy food and lifestyle choices. Students will investigate the interrelationship of food, nutrition and wellness to promote good health.
Course 2 - Food for Life
Food for Life is an advanced course in food and nutrition that addresses the variation in nutritional needs at specific stages of the human life cycle: lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood including elderly. The most common nutritional concerns, their relationship to food choices and health status and strategies to enhance well-being at each stage of the lifecycle are emphasized. This course provides knowledge for real life and offers students a pathway into dietetics, consumer foods, and nutrition science careers with additional education at the post-secondary level. * This Course satisfies the fourth science requirement.
Course 3 – Food Science
Food science integrates many branches of science and relies on the application of the rapid advances in technology to expand and improve the food supply. Students will evaluate the effects of processing, preparation, and storage on the quality, safety, wholesomeness, and nutritive value of foods. Building on information learned in Nutrition and Wellness and Chemistry, this course illustrates scientific principles in an applied context, exposing students to the wonders of the scientific world. Related careers will be explored.
Healthcare Science
Course 1- Introduction to Healthcare Science
Students will receive initial exposure to the many Healthcare Science careers as well as employability, communication, and technology skills necessary in the healthcare industry.
Course 2- Essentials of Healthcare
Essentials of Healthcare is a medical-focused anatomy course addressing the physiology of each body system, along with the investigation of common diseases, disorders and emerging diseases. The prevention of disease and the diagnosis and treatment that might be utilized are addressed, along with medical terminology related to each system. * This Course satisfies the fourth science requirement. Students will also earn 1 unit of credit for Human Anatomy and Physiology.
Course 3 - Emergency Medical Responder
What is offered:
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Provide initial stabilizing care to the sick or injured person
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How to assist EMS personnel in transporting patients
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Introduction into Medical Terminology and Anatomy & Physiology; Responder Safety; Incident Command; Blood-borne Pathogen Training; Basic Physical Assessment; and Treatment of Trauma and Medical Emergencies; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and the use of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs).
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Dual Enrollment with Lanier Technical College can lead to your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate which enables immediate employment.
Course 3 - Sports Medicine
What is offered:
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Knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, injury assessment, injury prevention, or rehabilitation
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Therapeutic services skills including anatomy and physiology, assessment, preventative and rehabilitative care are introduced.
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Fundamental healthcare skills development in medical terminology, kinesiology, patient assessment, record keeping, and basic life support.
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Dual Enrollment with Lanier Technical College can lead to your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate which enables immediate employment.
Course 3 - Patient Care Fundamentals
What is offered:
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Skills most commonly associated with a Nursing Assistant
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Knowledge and skills to deliver restorative care for patients including Activities of Daily Life (ADL), mental and social service needs, observe patient and privacy rights, safety measures for the patient and provider, and team communication.
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Dual Enrollment with Lanier Technical College can lead to your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate which enables immediate employment.
Law and Public Safety
Course 1-Introduction to Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
Students in this course will examine the basic concepts of law related to citizens’ rights and responsibilities along with exploring career opportunities in the Law and Public Safety field. Students will receive information and training in the following areas: Dangers in Public Safety (Gangs, Drugs/DUI, Disease Prevention, Handcuffing and Fingerprinting, CERT (Disaster Preparedness, CPR, First Aid, Fire prevention), Terrorism, and Criminal and Civil Law.
Course 2-Criminal Justice Essentials
This course will examine the history and evolution of the police force as well as the court system. Students will learn skills related to: Traffic and Patrol Operations (Accident Reconstruction, Traffic stops, Types of Patrol)*Civil and Criminal Law* Mock Trial (Pre-trial procedures, steps in a trial, creation of a
trial)*Police procedure*Sentencing options (including research on the death penalty)
Course 3-Criminal Investigations
This course provides students with the opportunity to examine the basic principles of forensic science criminal investigations. Basic investigative procedures used in: fingerprinting and analysis, interviews and interrogations, evaluating criminal behavior, gathering and preserving evidence (DNA, Blood Spatter Analysis, Cast Molds), Human remains
NJROTC
Course 1— Naval Science 1 – Field Cadet Manual
The purpose of this course is to combine all information on military drill and ceremonies, uniform regulations, physical fitness, orienteering, principles of health, first aid, survival, leadership, and communications.
Course 2—Naval Science 1 – Introduction to NJROTC.
The purpose of this course is to help students understand the missions, goals, and opportunities available as members of the NJROTC program. This course will also introduce students to the basic principles of leadership, which combined with the many opportunities for practical experience in the NJROTC program will prepare them for leadership roles in school and upon graduation. Students will gain an understanding of our nation, our values, traditions, heritage, respect for our laws, as well as becoming involved, responsible citizens.
Course 3—Naval Science 2 – Maritime History
The purpose of this course is to build on the general introduction provided in Naval Science I, to further develop the traits of citizenship and leadership in students, introduce cadets to the maritime history of the world and the United States from the American Revolution through the present time. The material includes Bosnia, the demise of the Soviet Union, and the September 11, 2001 terrorists’ attack upon the United States.
Course 4—Naval Science 2 – Nautical Science.
The purpose of this course is to introduce the various nautical sciences through classroom work and some laboratory time. The development of core skills that students should master is integrated throughout the course and includes geography, oceanography, astronomy, physical science, meteorology, and weather.
Course 5—Naval l Science 3 – Naval Knowledge
The purpose of this course is to further the foundation in citizenship and leadership established in Naval Science One and Two and to expound upon the virtues of the United States citizenship with knowledge of uses of the world’s waterways through the viewpoint of National power and International law.
Course 6—Naval Science 3 – Naval Orientation and Skills
The purpose of this course is to further the foundation in citizenship and leadership established in Naval Science One and Two and to provide classroom and practical application in Naval and Ship Organization.
Course 7—Naval Science 4 - Naval Leadership and Ethics
The purpose of this course is to take a more in-depth look at what leadership is and to learn how to maximize leadership abilities. More importantly, this course will assist the student in adding the polish necessary to be a truly effective leader in the NJROTC unit, school, community, and in life.
Course 8—Naval Science 4 – Effective Communications
The purpose of this course is to teach the students the techniques of effective communication, which is one of the most important skills that a good leader must develop in order to be successful.
Mechatronics and Robotics
Course 1—Introduction to Mechatronics
Hands-on learning manufacturing and robotics through the history, systems, and processes of manufacturing. Build your own motors while learning about electrical laws and principles, magnetism, series, parallel, and simple combination DC circuits, pneumatic system principles and components, and PLC installation and programming.
Course 2—AC Theory, Electric Motors, and Hydraulic Systems
Extend your knowledge of mechatronics through projects in alternating current theory and applications of varying sine wave voltages and current, inductance and capacitance, motor theory and operating principles, control devices, symbols and schematic diagrams, computer assisted manufacturing (CAM), programmable logic controllers, automated guided vehicles (AGV), and computer integrated manufacturing (CIM), preventative maintenance and troubleshooting, and hydraulic system principles and components.
Next Steps:
Dual Enrollment Courses with Lanier Technical College are immediately available to qualifying juniors and seniors that can lead to certificates or degree level programs. We are currently working on two certificate programs that can be completed WHILE you are in high school.
Marketing Management
Course 1— Marketing Principles
Marketing Principles addresses all the ways in which marketing satisfies consumer and business needs and wants for products and services. Students develop an understanding of the functions of marketing and how these functional areas affect all businesses. They learn basic marketing concepts and the role of marketing in our economy. Students also develop skills in applying economic concepts to marketing, distribution and logistics, marketing information management, finance in marketing, product/service planning, pricing mixes, promotional strategies, and personal selling.
Course 2– Marketing and Entrepreneurship
Marketing and Entrepreneurship begins an in depth and detailed study of marketing while also focusing on management with specific emphasis on small business ownership. This course builds on the theories learned in Marketing Principles by providing practical application scenarios which test these theories. In addition, Marketing and Entrepreneurship focuses on the role of the supervisor and examines the qualities needed to be successful.
Course 3– Marketing Management
Students assume a managerial perspective by applying economic principles in marketing, analyzing operation’s needs, examining channel management and financial alternatives, managing marketing information, pricing products and services, developing product/service planning strategies, promoting products and services, purchasing, and professional sales. This course also includes global marketing where students analyze marketing strategies employed in the United States versus those employed in other countries.
Sports and Entertainment Marketing
Course 1— Marketing Principles
Marketing Principles addresses all the ways in which marketing satisfies consumer and business needs and wants for products and services. Students develop an understanding of the functions of marketing and how these functional areas affect all businesses. They learn basic marketing concepts and the role of marketing in our economy. Students also develop skills in applying economic concepts to marketing, distribution and logistics, marketing information management, finance in marketing, product/service planning, pricing mixes, promotional strategies, and personal selling.
Course 2– Intro to Sports & Entertainment Marketing
This course introduces students to the major segments of the sports and entertainment industry, and the social and economic impact the industry has on the local, state, national, and global economies. As part of this course, and Advanced Sports & Entertainment Marketing, students will gain first-hand experience in the marketing field as it relates to Gainesville High School athletics: promoting the athletes, coaches, games, etc., through the production of online content for Gainesville’s athletics website and social media feeds (Instagram, Facebook, and @goredelephants on Twitter) , as well as digital content for the athletic program's four Jumbotrons located at the school's various sports facilities.
Course 3– Advanced Sports & Entertainment Marketing
This course provides students opportunities to develop managerial and analytical skills and deepen their knowledge in sports and entertainment marketing, while continuing to apply that knowledge practically in the marketing of Gainesville High School athletics.