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Murphy High School, the largest high school in Cherokee County, serves more than 400 students in grades 9-12. With a strong commitment to Career & Technical Education, the school continues to expand hands-on learning opportunities, industry-recognized certifications and real-world career preparation for its students.
Across campus, students have access to a wide range of CTE pathways designed to connect classroom instruction with high-demand careers.
In the area of Business, Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Julie Hughes teaches Marketing, Sports & Event Marketing and Microsoft Applications. Students not only explore branding, promotions and event planning, but also have the opportunity to earn Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, including Word Specialist and Expert and PowerPoint Specialist and Expert. These industry-recognized credentials strengthen students’ college and career readiness by ensuring they are proficient in essential workplace technology skills.
Michael Kernea leads Entrepreneurship and Program Management courses, where students learn how to turn ideas into action. Through these courses, students may earn the Venture Entrepreneurship Experience credential, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Certification and PMI Project Management Ready Certification. These certifications equip students with skills in business planning, financial literacy, leadership and project execution – tools that are valuable across a wide range of industries.
Murphy High School also offers strong opportunities in Computer Science and Technology. Alyssa Montague teaches Computer Science I and AP Computer Science, helping students develop programming skills, computational thinking and problem-solving abilities. AP Computer Science provides college-level coursework and the opportunity to earn college credit while preparing students for careers in software development, cybersecurity, engineering and other high-demand technology fields.
For students interested in the skilled trades, Heath Curtis teaches Carpentry I and II. Students gain hands-on experience in framing, blueprint reading, tool safety and construction techniques. Certification opportunities include OSHA Construction Certification, NCCER Construction Core Certification, and NCCER Carpentry Level I and II Certifications. These industry-recognized credentials prepare students for immediate employment or advanced training in construction and related fields.
In Culinary Arts and Family and Consumer Sciences, Kristie Cook leads the Foods program, where students build practical skills in culinary arts, nutrition, food safety, meal planning and hospitality. Students can earn ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Food Protection Manager certifications, valuable credentials in the food service and hospitality industries.
Cook also teaches Counseling and Mental Health, where students explore emotional wellness, communication strategies and stress management. Students in this pathway may earn the Pre-Professional Certification in Family and Community Services, preparing them for careers in human services and community support professions.
Health-care pathways are led by Dr. Barbara Haydon, who teaches Health Science I and II, Pharmacy Technology and Certified Nursing Assistant. Students develop a strong foundation in anatomy, medical terminology, infection control and patient care skills. In Pharmacy Technology, they study medication safety, pharmaceutical calculations and pharmacy law. Through the CNA pathway, students gain hands-on clinical experience and have the opportunity to earn their Certified Nursing Assistant credential, allowing them to enter the healthcare workforce immediately after graduation while building a pathway toward advanced medical careers.
Public Safety and Emergency Management programs are led by Mike Taylor. In Public Safety courses, students explore careers in law enforcement, fire service, EMS, homeland security and 911 communications. Coursework includes emergency response procedures, CPR and First Aid, crisis communication, teamwork in high-pressure situations, and legal and ethical responsibilities. Students may earn certifications such as National Incident Management System, Community Emergency Response Team, Law & Public Safety Introduction Competency and NECI 911 Telecommunicator/Officer credentials.
In Emergency Management, students study disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. They learn how communities coordinate emergency operations, manage resources and protect lives during natural disasters and critical incidents. Students may also earn N.C. Emergency Management certifications. Through hands-on simulations and scenario-based training, Taylor’s classes build leadership, responsibility and a strong commitment to service.
Through its diverse CTE pathways, dedicated instructors and emphasis on industry-recognized certifications, Murphy High continues to equip local students with the skills, credentials and confidence needed 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.