Why explore CTE in middle school?

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” This is a question that young people are often asked, but not often given the opportunity to truly investigate. Students need early, rich, and varied experiences so they can learn about, practice, and explore careers before making decisions about enrolling in VUSD’s many high school CTE Pathways or Linked Learning Academies. As stated in our Forward 2030 Strategic Plan, VUSD is committed to providing equitable access to graduation and post-secondary success by “expanding and enhancing our CTE programming.” One exciting way we are expanding our programming is the addition of a new middle school elective course. 

New Elective Course: CTE Career Experience

Beginning in Fall 2025, students at each middle school site will be able to enroll in the new “CTE Career Experience” course. Check out the  Course Overview  and Course Outline for detailed information. 

During the class, students rotate through a sequence of curated Paxton Patterson College and Career Ready Labs where they explore real-world challenges and learn about training pathways to high-paying careers. Students can try out robotics, engines, nursing, veterinary science, construction, welding, cooking, video editing, and much more. They will also engage in project-based learning as they work in groups to create a business plan and produce a documentary video while working alongside local industry experts to develop public speaking and professional skills and apply what they’ve learned to address real-world challenges in Visalia.

Get Involved

In Person and Virtual Opportunities 

Check out the flier below for more information on how to get involved. If you would like to get involved with the new elective course, please fill out this Middle School CTE Interest Form.

Get Enrolled

For information about registering for the elective, contact your middle school counselor or administrators.

Contact Information

For general information about the course, contact Middle School CTE Program Manager Dr. Amy Frame at aframe01@vusd.org.

Middle School CTE Advisory Board Meetings

Thursdays 4:00 - 5:00 pm via Zoom

Dates: 8/21/25, 9/18/25, 10/16/25, 11/20/25, 12/18/25, 1/29/26, 2/19/26, 3/19/26, 4/16/26, 5/21/26

Industry Partners meet to provide insight and guidance on aligning the course to our CTE Pathways, Linked Learning Academies, post-secondary learning, and emerging job opportunities unique to our region. Help us develop our work-based learning plans and develop meaningful project-based learning curriculum.

Register here for the link.