Hiwassee Dam High School, one of three traditional high schools serving Cherokee County and the second school highlighted, is a small rural school serving about 125 students in grades 9-12. Despite its size, the school continues to strengthen its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs by offering hands-on learning experiences, industry-recognized certifications and real-world career preparation.
The school’s Foods program, taught by Tommy Strickland, provides students with practical culinary and nutrition skills. Students in these courses have the opportunity to earn ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Food Protection Manager certifications, credentials that are highly valued in the food service and hospitality industries.
Health Science courses at Hiwassee Dam High School include Health Science I, Health Science II and Foundations of Health Science, instructed by Nicole Hamby. Students can earn multiple certifications, including First Aid, CPR and AED, OSHA Health, and Stop the Bleed, preparing them for entry-level healthcare roles and future medical pathways.
The school’s business and marketing offerings are led by James Minear, who teaches Marketing, Sports and Event Marketing, and Travel and Tourism. Students enrolled in Travel and Tourism have the opportunity to earn certifications such as Guest Service Professional and Hospitality and Tourism Specialist, supporting careers in customer service, tourism and hospitality management.
Public safety education is provided by Mike Taylor, who teaches Emergency Management and Public Safety courses. Students in Emergency Management can earn N.C. Emergency Management certifications, while students in Public Safety may earn credentials including Law and Public Safety Introduction Competency, National Incident Command System (NIMS), Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and NECI 911 Telecommunicator/Officer certifications.
In addition to its CTE pathways, Hiwassee Dam High School ensures students develop essential technology skills commonly taught at traditional high schools, including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel, supporting academic success and workplace readiness.
Through its diverse programs, dedicated instructors and focus on certification opportunities, Hiwassee Dam High School remains committed to preparing students for college, careers and meaningful community involvement.
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.