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District highlights K–12 career technical education expansion and summer internships
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Summary
District presenters showcased expansion of CTE programs from elementary career awareness to high‑school pathways, reported 335 CTE completers last year and outlined a summer internship program that awards a $500 stipend to participants. Trustees praised program growth and asked about outreach and inclusion for special‑education students.
Newport‑Mesa Unified School District leaders presented an overview Wednesday of the district’s Career Technical Education (CTE) continuum, detailing elementary career awareness pilots, middle‑school gateway coursework and high‑school pathways that lead to industry certifications and internship opportunities.
Keith Carmona and CTE staff described a Career Connected Schools pilot at Victoria Elementary using RIASEC career‑interest language and said the district hopes to expand PLTW gateway courses and an “App Creators” pilot at several elementary sites. The presentation noted a district‑wide high of 335 CTE completers last year.
Rachel Kloppenburg described internship opportunities that give students hands‑on projects with local employers; students who complete the program earn a $500 stipend. One student speaker said the internship helped clarify a career interest in sustainability; another described aerospace work that supported planning for future events.
Trustees praised partnerships with Coastline ROP and local employers, asked about application volumes and promotion strategies, and urged broader access for special‑education students. Lisa Snowden said the application for the summer internship cohort closes February 15 and that the program has grown annually; she reported early interest and outlined steps to amplify outreach through public information channels.
What’s next: Staff will continue pilot work in elementary schools, promote internship opportunities through site communications and social media, and report on participation and outcomes.
Provenance: CTE presentation and student testimony (SEG 1201–SEG 1400; Q&A SEG 1401–SEG 1600).
