Warren High School is excited to spotlight one of its newest Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways: Education Careers. This program gives students a comprehensive look at the many career opportunities within the field of education, going beyond classroom teaching to include both certificated and classified roles. From teachers and counselors to technology staff, administrative support, and maintenance personnel, students gain a full picture of how a school district operates and how all roles work together to support student success.
The first semester of the pathway lays the foundation. Students explore the structure of the education system, learn about professional expectations, and investigate the variety of careers available within a school and district. Guest speakers, class discussions, and case studies give students insight into how different roles intersect and contribute to the broader mission of education.
This past semester, the pathway welcomed all Downey Unified Classified and Certificated Directors for a guest speaker series, providing students with a rare behind-the-scenes look at each department within the district. Students left with a deeper understanding of how departments collaborate to ensure the success of every student while also learning about different career opportunities. One student reflected, “This course offers so much insight into the different positions within DUSD; I had zero idea what these occupations were before. The class environment is one of my favorites and is honestly one of my reasons to come to school everyday. It’s comforting to me because my peers are so positive and my teacher, Ms. Hassler, cares for us so much.”
Next semester, students will gain even more direct experience by working in classrooms at our feeder elementary and middle schools. Another student shared, “I am so grateful for what has been my experience so far, and I look forward to visiting other schools in DUSD and being exposed directly to the different levels of education from inside a classroom.”
A unique aspect of the program is its focus on personal growth. All 138 students in the pathway had the opportunity to complete the CliftonStrengths assessment and work with DUSD Strengths Coach, Mrs. Fishman. Through this experience, students identified their individual strengths and learned to focus on the positive as they consider their future careers.
Next semester, students will step outside the classroom to connect theory to practice. Through interviews, shadowing, and hands-on experiences in local classrooms, students will see firsthand how education professionals make an impact.
Designed to showcase every corner of the education field, the Education Careers pathway goes beyond teaching to highlight all the roles that keep schools and districts running. With practical experiences, self-discovery opportunities, and real-world learning, students at Warren are prepared to find their place and make a difference in education!
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