Students with a creative flair will be excited to learn about Downey Unified’s CTE pathways in arts, media, and entertainment. These pathways provide an exceptional opportunity for students to explore careers in these fields while gaining both hands-on skills and real-world experience. Whether passionate about filmmaking, design, dance, or multimedia, these pathways are designed to help your student turn creativity into a future career.
Film and Video Production Pathway
At Warren High School, aspiring filmmakers can dive into the Film and Video Production pathway. This two-year program is perfect for students with a passion for storytelling, cinematography, or editing.
Students receive an introduction to the fundamentals of filmmaking, including camera techniques, lighting, sound, and editing software. Hands-on projects allow students to work collaboratively to create short films, documentaries, or other video content. High-quality equipment, such as industry-standard cameras and editing software, is available for students to use in this program. They will learn technical skills that prepare them for professional careers in the film industry.
Graduates of this pathway leave with not only a portfolio of work but also the skills necessary for careers in the film industry or further study in college film programs.
Graphic Design and Commercial Arts
Downey High School offers four different CTE pathways in the arts, media, and entertainment fields. These pathways are tailored to different creative disciplines, providing students with a solid foundation and hands-on experience. They also work with professional, industry standard equipment and software. Students who complete these programs exit with impressive portfolios, industry certifications, and may have an opportunity to receive college credit.
Graphic Design Pathway
Students interested in digital art and design can explore the Graphic Design pathway. The course covers the building blocks of art and design including typography, image retouching, and digital illustration. They will also learn how to design logos and build branding kits for their portfolios.
Visual and Commercial Art Pathway
For students drawn to traditional art forms and their commercial applications, this pathway bridges creativity and business. Students will refine their skills in digital photography and learn how to use Adobe Photoshop to manipulate images.
Dance Choreography Pathway
The Dance Choreography pathway is ideal for students who love movement and performance. They will explore a variety of dance styles, including jazz, ballet, tap, modern and contemporary. They’ll learn proper techniques and practices, from warm-ups to basic ballet positions to styles of movement. By the end of the course, students will choreograph their own dance in groups and perform for their peers.
Multimedia Production Pathway
In this hands-on pathway, students learn how to plan, shoot and edit a video using Adobe Premiere Pro. In addition, the course covers a five-step design process, camera fundamentals and how to make a professional portfolio.
Building Skills for the Future
Each CTE pathway at Downey Unified is thoughtfully structured to provide students with essential skills and real-world experience. The first year focuses on foundational skills and technical concepts, while the second year places emphasis on hands-on projects and in-depth exploration of the field.
Upon completing these programs, students can earn industry-recognized certifications or college credits, giving them a head start in their chosen careers. Whether pursuing higher education or entering the workforce directly, students leave the program with valuable tools to succeed.
Exploring Career Options
These pathways not only teach technical skills but also introduce students to various career possibilities in the arts, media, and entertainment industries. From graphic designers and filmmakers, to multimedia specialists and professional dancers, students can discover a range of professions that align with their interests and talents.
In addition to skill-building, the programs emphasize collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity—traits highly valued in today’s job market.
Discover more at the CTE Expo!
Curious? Want to learn more? You are invited to come to our two-night CTE Expo to learn more about our pathways. Discover how Downey Unified’s CTE program can set your child on a path to success today.
Event Dates: February 26 & 27
For event details visit: http://web.dusd.net/cte-expo/