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Career and Technical Education (CTE)

CTE in Delaware

"Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs allow Delaware students the chance to earn early college credits, industry-recognized credentials and work experience while still in high school. To earn a living wage in today’s economy, all students must pursue education beyond high school. This education can include a two-year or four-year college degree, certification program, apprenticeship, formal job training or military service. The type of education students choose depends on each student’s unique interests and skills.

Delaware is a leader in CTE and uniquely positioned to be a model for the nation."

- Source: Delaware Department of Education Website

CTE in the Indian River School District

IRHS culinary arts

From healthcare and engineering to agricultural science and digital media, there's a path for every student's passion. This page offers details about each of our CTE programs, including where they're offered and various pathway connections. Students are able to see how these programs can jumpstart their college plans, or lead directly into careers. They'll also learn about Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) which allow students to put their skills to the test at regional, national, or international competitions while developing valuable leadership abilities.

We invite students & families to explore the options, find what sparks their interest, and start building their future today. Take a few moments to explore the Indian River School District's wide range of Career and Technical Education programs below.

CTE Programs Offered

Program Descriptions: 

Animal Science & Management This program of study prepares students for a variety of careers in :  agribusiness, agriscience education, animal genetics, animal nutrition, animal reproduction, extension educator, marine biology, wildlife biology, veterinary medicine, zoology, animal researcher, animal processor, production manager, artificial insemination technician, animal breeder, veterinary assistant/technician, wildlife manager, zoo animal specialist, animal rescue/animal control officer, and agriculture producer. Local business partners and agencies work with educators by serving on advisory boards and as mentors to provide a real-world connection to Animal Systems coursework. Work-based learning experiences and industry-mentored projects are included in each course and will be reviewed with the LEA Program Advisory Council (PAC) to further identify opportunities to engage the community.

Agricultural Power and Engineering: This program is a three (3) course program of study that provides students with the mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles and methods required to understand dynamic power systems and metal fabrication. Students practice real world applications, communication skills, and problem solving skills associated with dynamic power systems and metal fabrication. Students are prepared for a variety of careers including engineering, welding technician, mechanical and industrial technician, maintenance technician, mechanical engineer, metal fabrication, CNC operator, power technology repair and troubleshooting, and green energy technologies.

Agricultural Structures & Engineering: This program of study is a three (3) course Career & Technical Education (CTE) instructional program designed to provide students with the scientific principles and methods required to understand the interrelationships of construction. Students practice real world applications and problem solving skills associated with agricultural designs and engineering principles. Students utilize problem solving as well as communication skills to develop engineering concepts and building practices that are sound and reliable. The program prepares students for a variety of careers including carpentry, engineering, architectural design, electrical, plumbing, masonry, construction framing, business management, sales, building maintenance, home improvement, and green energy technologies.

Plant Science: This program of study is a three (3) course Career & Technical Education (CTE) instructional program designed to provide students with knowledge of plant growth and reproduction, as well as the use of plants for food, fiber, and ornamental purposes. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in: agronomy, ornamental horticulture, biotechnology, forestry, soil science, and turf management.

IRHS Certified Nursing Assistant

Program Goal: 

To provide our students the opportunity to earn early college credits, industry-recognized credentials and work experience while still in high school. To earn a living wage in today’s economy, all students must pursue education beyond high school. This education can include a two-year or four-year college degree, certification program, apprenticeship, formal job training or military service. The type of education students choose depends on each student’s unique interests and skills.

School Sites Offering This Pathway or Program: 

Millsboro Middle, Selbyville Middle, Georgetown Middle, Indian River High School, Sussex Central High School

Pathway Courses: 

See program descriptions above.

Potential College/Career Connections: 

Vocational & College PartnershipsUniversity of Delaware, Delaware Technical and Community College, Delaware State University, Carpenters Union, Universal Technical Institute, Hobart Welding Institute, Delaware Valley University, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences

Potential Careers: Agribusiness, agriscience education, animal genetics, animal nutrition, animal reproduction, extension educator, marine biology, wildlife biology, veterinary medicine, zoology, animal researcher, animal processor, production manager, artificial insemination technician, animal breeder, veterinary assistant/technician, wildlife manager, zoo animal specialist, animal rescue/animal control officer, and agriculture producer.

CTSO Connections: 

Future Farmers of America (FFA)