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Career & Technical Education Information

What is CTE?

Career and Technical Education–commonly referred to as CTE–describes educational programs that specialize in the skilled trades, applied sciences, modern technologies, and career preparation. These are academic and career-oriented courses that provide students with the opportunity to gain work experience through internships, job shadowing, on-the-job training, and industry-certification opportunities. Raytown School District partners with three organizations (Herndon Career Center, Southland Centers for Advanced Professional Studies, and Summit Technology Academy) to provide opportunities for students to learn real-world occupational skills. We encourage students and parents to explore each program, listed to the left of this page, for more information. 

Preparing for CTE

Timeline of Events

If you are interested in attending one of our CTE schools, there are things you need to do each year to ensure that you stay on the right path. Below are some suggestions for each year:

Freshman Year

  • Explore the different programs that are offered by visiting with your school counselor and reviewing the handbook and website.
  • Maintain a 2.0 (HCC) or 2.5 (STA) GPA in school.
  • Be sure your attendance is at least 95%-try not to miss more than 5 days of school.
  • Take classes that will help to prepare you for the program you are interested in (for example, take Nutrition and Food Preparation if you are interested in Culinary).

Sophomore Year

  • Continue to explore programs available by attending the rep visits, information sessions, and site visits (keep an eye on your email for this information!)
  • Complete the application process for your chosen program. (Your counselor can help with this!)
  • Maintain a 2.0 (HCC) or 2.5 (STA) GPA in school.
  • Be sure your attendance is at least 95%-try not to miss more than 5 days of school.
  • Plan your schedule for junior year with your counselor to be sure you have all required courses scheduled into your day.

Junior Year

If you are enrolled in HCC, CAPS, or STA:

  • Make sure you are managing time well between there and Raytown South High School.
  • Maintain good attendance (95% or better). Poor attendance may result in dismissal from the program!
  • Be sure to ask about dual-credit and certification opportunities.
  • Be sure to earn at least a C or higher in your program. Earning a D or F may result in dismissal from the program!
  • Complete the application for senior year (no later than December) if you plan to return for a 2nd year.
  • Ask for letters of recommendations from your HCC/CAPS/STA teachers. (These may be helpful when applying for scholarships or jobs senior year!)

If you are not enrolled in HCC, CAPS, or STA:

  • If you did not apply last year or are not in a program, refer to Sophomore Year timelines.
  • If you are planning to apply for Cosmetology as a senior, make sure you are on track to meet all credit requirements.
  • Maintain a 2.0 (HCC) or 2.5 (STA) GPA in school.
  • Be sure your attendance is at least 95%-try not to miss more than 5 days of school.

Senior Year

If you are enrolled in HCC, CAPS, or STA:

  • Maintain good attendance (95% or better). Poor attendance may result in dismissal from the program!
  • Be sure to earn at least a C or higher in your program. Earning a D or F may result in dismissal from the program!
  • Ask about dual-credit and certification opportunities.
  • Check your school email regularly, especially if you are in an all-day program, so you don't miss out on senior activities or opportunities at RSHS!
  • Ask for letters of recommendations from your HCC/CAPS/STA teachers.
  • Ask your instructor about internship or job placement opportunities after graduation.