In addition to the CTAE Pathways, there are three other critical components to prepare students for post-secondary placements, whether furthering education, entering an apprenticeship program, or beginning a career.
Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)
CTSOs enhance student learning through leadership and personal development, applied learning and real-world application. These are integral in preparing students to become career ready members of society who will hold leadership roles in their communities. These organizations provide motivation, leadership training, and career development opportunities for students in CTAE programs. CTSOs offer enhancement of occupational, employability and leadership skills through various activities such as conferences, award programs, service projects, and competitive events. AASD participates in Career and Technical Instruction (CTI). This is a student organization specifically for students with disabilities. CTI offers the same level of leadership training, career development, and competitive events as the other CTSOs. For more information about CTI, see this link: Georgia CTI
Work-Based Learning
The first is Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a continuum of awareness, exploration, preparation, and training activities, including developing employability and technical skills that support success in careers and postsecondary education. Structured learning and authentic work experiences are implemented through an education and industry partnership. Students can connect what they learn in school with worksite application, enabling a smooth transition into the work force and/or education beyond high school. Work-Based Learning activities culminate in an assessment and recognition of acquired knowledge and skills. There are placements in school and off campus, and some positions are paid.
Georgia Work-Based Learning website: Georgia Work Based Learning / Youth Apprenticeship (gawbl.org)
Dual Enrollment
Dual Enrollment is designed to prepare students for college and career opportunities leading students to postsecondary institutions for an industry recognized certification or licensure, an associate and/or higher college degree, and successful employment. Starting as early as 10th grade, students can be eligible to participate in Dual Enrollment. Students may enroll on a part-time or full-time basis as a Dual Enrollment student and take college courses at their high school or on a postsecondary campus. Students will receive high school and college credit simultaneously when attending and passing approved college classes.
Dual Enrollment Q&A for parents: Frequently Asked Questions | Georgia Student Finance Commission (gafutures.org)
Students who participate in in these critical components of high school, can earn Career Ready Diploma Seals. These are awarded to graduating high school seniors who complete a series of accomplishments as outlined, and engaged in activities, courses, and experiences that foster career readiness. The diploma seal is a signal to employers that a student is prepared to participate in the workforce. There are two levels of recognition – regular and distinguished. The Career Seals are earned in three areas:
1. Employability Career Seal – Complete an Employability Skills / Soft Skills program by the local system and their business partners.
2. Pathway Career Seal – Complete a CTAE pathway.
3. Leadership Career Seal – Earn honors by participating in the Career and Technical Student Organization, developing a portfolio, and being involved in community service.
FAQs about Career Seals: Career-Seals-FAQ-2019.pdf (gadoe.org)
Career Seal Brochure: Career Ready Diploma Brochure_07-29-2021.pdf (gadoe.org)
CTAE Annual Report: Welcome | CTAE Delivers: 2019-2020 Annual Report
Profile of a CTAE Graduate: https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/CTAE/Documents/8-3-21 Profile of a Georgia CTAE Graduate Flipbook.htm
