

Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs and pathways allow students to apply mathematics, science, and communication competencies in laboratory and occupational settings that develop specific technical skills applicable in broad concentration areas. Curriculum incorporates Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) in all content areas.
Career, Technical and Agricultural Education at Pickens County School District aims to engage students in cutting-edge, grade-appropriate career exploration and preparation opportunities that set them up to excel in postsecondary education and productive careers.
The hallmarks of CTAE programming are an industry focus and emphasis on technology. These are incorporated into several aspects of the CTAE experience:
· Career, Technical and Agricultural Education at Pickens County School District aims to engage students in cutting-edge, grade-appropriate career exploration and preparation opportunities that set them up to excel in postsecondary education and productive careers.
· The hallmarks of CTAE programming are an industry focus and emphasis on technology. These are incorporated into several aspects of the CTAE experience: Hands-on lab activities and classroom instruction encourage critical thinking, innovation and collaboration.
· Career & Technical Student Organizations like Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Career Technical Instruction (CTI), Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Health Professionals (HOSA), Skills USA, and Technology Student Association (TSA) build leadership and community.
· Career related education, including guest speakers, job shadowing, and internships provide authentic experiences for student learning and growth.
Students are encouraged to pursue pathway completion, which entails taking a sequence of courses in the same industry cluster. Upon completion of a pathway students are eligible to take an assessment leading to an industry recognized credential or certification (e.g., Certified Nursing Assistant, Microsoft Office Specialist, OSHA Certification). In addition, their participation in co-curricular student organizations, and work-based learning enables them to leave high school with tangible marketable skills and documentation of their capabilities, as well as greater understanding of the college and career paths related to their chosen industry.
Currently, The Pickens County School District offers the following career and technical programs including 16 career pathway options for all students regardless of race, color, national origin, including those with limited English proficiency, sex or disability in grades 9-12.
Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
· Food Animal Systems
· Forestry/Wildlife Systems
· Plant and Floriculture Systems
· Agriculture Mechanics Systems
· Poultry Science
Architecture and Construction
· Carpentry
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
· Audio-Video Technology and Film
Business, Administration, and Management
· Business and Technology
Hospitality and Tourism
· Culinary Arts
Education and Training
· Early Childhood Care and Education
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics – STEM
• Engineering and Technology
Healthcare Science
· Allied Health and Medicine
· Sports Medicine
Information Technology
· Game Design
Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security
· Law Enforcement Services/Criminal Investigations
Marketing
· Marketing and Management
Persons seeking further information concerning the career and technical education offerings and specific pre-requisite criteria should contact:
Carissa Parker
CTAE Director
500 Dragon Drive
Jasper, GA 30143
706-253-1800
carissaparker@pickenscountyschools.org
Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:
Corey Thompson, Chief of Student Services
100 D.B. Carroll St.
Jasper, GA 30143
706-253-1700
coreythompson@pickenscountyschools.org
Seth Youngblood, 504 Coordinator
100 D.B. Carroll St.
Jasper, GA 30143
706-253-1700
sethyoungblood@pickenscountyschools.org
Destini Shope, Human Resources Coordinator
100 D.B. Carroll St.
Jasper, GA 30143
706-253-1700
destinishope@pickenscountyschools.org
CTAE Pathway Videos