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A new year brings a new perspective, and this month we are taking a closer look at the Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs offered across Cherokee County Schools. In January, our spotlight shines on Andrews High School.
Andrews High School serves about 200 students and offers a strong selection of CTE courses onsite, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and valuable real-world skills.
One of the CTE areas at Andrews High School is Foods I and II, taught by Brittany Pleasants. Her classroom is filled with both laughter and learning as students develop essential life skills such as reading recipes, practicing food safety and cooking from scratch. Foods is a CTE course that benefits every student by promoting independence, responsibility and confidence.
Ms. Pleasants also teaches Counseling and Mental Health as well as Child Development. In Counseling and Mental Health, students learn to manage stress, understand their emotions and develop a cooperative, team-focused mindset.
The Child Development course allows students to explore early childhood growth, development and caregiving skills. Learning about themselves, others and effective communication is not just a high school skill – it is a lifelong skill that prepares students for both careers as well as everyday life.
Another key CTE area at Andrews High School is Health Science, taught by Stephanie Davenport, RN. Ms. Davenport teaches Health Science I and II, Nursing Fundamentals and Pharmacy Technician.
In these courses, students gain knowledge in basic life support, first responder skills, medical terminology and foundational healthcare practices. Her hands-on approach to instruction is inspiring and provides students with meaningful exposure to careers in the medical field.
Andrews High School also offers Technology, Engineering, and Design and Technological Design, both taught by Joshua Schwarting. These engaging CTE courses help students build problem-solving skills, creativity and technical knowledge while gaining a deeper understanding of design and engineering concepts that align with today’s workforce needs.
In addition, students at Andrews High School have the opportunity to take Computer Science I and II, where they develop critical thinking, logic and technology skills essential for a wide range of modern careers.
CTE teachers across Cherokee County Schools go above and beyond every day to support students, encourage exploration and prepare them for success after graduation.
Cherokee County Schools is proud to be a leader in Career & Technical Education and a strong advocate for student growth and achievement.
The writer is career development coordinator with the Career & Technical Education program in Cherokee County Schools. Email her at dana.anderson@cherokee.k12.nc.us.