San Luis High students present career and technical education programs to city council

San Luis High School students outlined their career and technical education (CTE) offerings to the San Luis City Council, describing hands-on classes, certifications and student achievements that they say prepare graduates for college and the workforce.

At the meeting the students, led by CTE co-president Violeta Costa, said the program offers 16 career and technical courses spanning health science, technology, engineering and business. "CTE stands for career and technical education," Costa said, adding that courses allow students to "earn industry certifications or college credits." She and fellow student presenters described recent activities including welding projects for a local industrial park, a guest motivational speaker, and leadership training in Washington, D.C.

The students identified culinary arts, law and public safety, and construction as the programs with the highest student interest this school year. They also said some students earn certifications such as CSI and FEMA and that the school's FBLA chapter recently won 30 medals at regional competitions.

Council members praised the students and encouraged engagement: Mayor Nieves Radeau called the students "the future," and several members invited students to bring projects to city events and asked to serve as judges for CTE competitions.

The students extended an open invitation for council members and community members to visit campus, serve as guest speakers and participate in CTE expos. The council offered formal thanks and applause at the end of the presentation.

The council did not take any formal action on the presentation; it served as an informational item and community recognition.