Career & Technical Education

AgriScience

The program provides a comprehensive introduction to agriculture, encompassing fundamental concepts and practical skills. Students explore the foundations of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and various agricultural careers while developing essential workplace and public speaking abilities through the FFA Creed and parliamentary procedures. Key topics include laboratory safety, plant and animal science, nutrition, environmental science, and natural resources.

In addition, students focus on operating a high-tech greenhouse, engaging in organic production and hydroponic plant care from seeding to marketing. They study plant nutrition, pest management, and agricultural mechanics while participating in FFA events and maintaining a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project and electronic record book.

The program also emphasizes the development of professional employment skills such as leadership, communication, portfolio creation, and interview techniques. Students learn to manage agricultural businesses and marketing, participate in hands-on instruction, and develop basic agricultural mechanics and construction skills relevant to plant systems operations. Through research and prepared speeches on current agricultural issues, students further enhance their communication skills, ensuring a well-rounded education in the agricultural field.

AgriScience Technical Standards

Automotive Technologies

The automotive program offers a hands-on education in vehicle maintenance and repair, designed to prepare students for careers in the automotive field or further post-secondary education.

Students begin with a foundational course that covers shop safety, industry standards, and basic maintenance and repair techniques, while also exploring related job opportunities. The curriculum then progresses to a more detailed examination of automotive maintenance, focusing on safety, technical math, automotive design, reference materials, tools, fluids, lubricants, seals, gaskets, and electrical principles. Key systems such as engines, transmissions, differentials, and air conditioning are also addressed.

The Auto Block course provides a structured, in-depth look at vehicle technology, emphasizing practical skills for direct entry into the automotive repair industry. This segment of the program is certified by the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF) and includes additional Automotive Manufacturers Certification for dealership internships. Topics covered include brakes, steering and suspension, electrical systems, and engine performance.

Participation in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) such as Skills-USA is integral to the program. Students are encouraged to compete in state and national contests, gaining valuable experience and opportunities for scholarships and awards. 

Automotive Technologies Technical Standards

BioScience

The Bioscience program offers a rigorous curriculum that integrates key concepts from biology, chemistry, and advanced laboratory techniques, preparing students for higher education and careers in the life sciences and biotechnology fields.

The program begins with a foundational course in Biochemistry, which combines elements of biology and chemistry. While the course emphasizes organic chemistry, it also covers essential standards from inorganic chemistry and earth and space science, building a strong base for further study in biosciences.

In Biotechnology I, students engage in hands-on molecular lab techniques, including micro-pipetting, DNA extraction, amplification, and visualization on electrophoresis gels. They learn to prepare DNA for sequencing, interpret DNA sequences, and apply sterile techniques to grow and work with microorganisms. This course equips students with the skills necessary for careers in biotechnology.

Biotechnology II expands on the foundational skills acquired in the previous course, focusing on advanced techniques to analyze DNA and proteins from microorganisms and model research organisms. Students engage in independent research, formulating scientific questions, designing experiments, and analyzing data. They also learn to communicate their findings effectively through graphs and written reports. Opportunities for collaboration with local research labs enhance the learning experience, and dual enrollment credit is available for MCB102 at the University of Arizona.

The program also includes a course on Human Anatomy, which covers critical topics such as disease analysis, cells and tissues, and various human body systems, including skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic, digestive, urinary, and integumentary systems. The course incorporates laboratory work and dissections, reinforcing biological standards and providing practical, hands-on experience.

BioScience Technical Standards

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts program provides students with a comprehensive education in food production and service, equipping them with the technical knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in the culinary field.

Initially, students learn the foundational aspects of culinary arts, focusing on the identification, selection, storage, safety, and sanitation of commercial food and equipment. This groundwork establishes essential skills for various food service occupations.

As students progress, they enhance their job skills for institutional and commercial food services. The curriculum builds on basic culinary techniques, introducing more advanced skills through hands-on practice. Students engage in field trips, listen to guest speakers, and earn ServSafe Certification, ensuring they are well-prepared for industry standards.

In the advanced stages of the program, students develop specialized skills for cooking in different settings, including large groups, small groups, and competitive environments. Emphasis is placed on catering, food ordering, and production, allowing students to apply their culinary skills in real-world scenarios.

The total program fosters both technical proficiency and practical experience, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.

Culinary Arts Technical Standards

Digital Photography

The Digital Photography Program offers the opportunity to equip students with both the technical and artistic skills needed to excel in various photography genres.

Students begin by mastering the fundamentals of photography, focusing on key concepts such as composition, manual camera techniques, and photo editing using Adobe Photoshop. Using professional equipment and software, students develop their technical expertise while also exploring the creative aspects of photography with a strong fine arts emphasis.

As they progress, students apply these foundational skills to specialized genres, including portrait photography, event photography, landscape, macro, fashion, food photography, and light art. Throughout the program, they are encouraged to work both in class and the community, capturing diverse subjects and experiences. They use Digital SLR cameras, digital archival color printing, and gallery framing techniques to produce professional-level work.

Students gain hands-on experience with photography studio and on-location lighting techniques, capturing action and candid photography for yearbook and district publications. Projects often involve working outside of regular school hours, including weekends, and are designed to mimic industry practices, allowing students to develop a professional portfolio that meets real-world standards.

In addition to in-class projects, students participate in exhibitions, local and statewide competitions as members of the Photography CTSO (Photo Club). They have the opportunity to showcase their work in galleries and to clients, further honing their presentation skills. 

Digital Photography Technical Standards

Education Professions

The Education Professions Program prepares students with the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue a career in education.

In the introductory level, students explore essential concepts such as learning styles, multiple intelligences, and stages of development. They gain insights into teaching strategies for students of all ages, allowing them to create and implement effective lessons. Practical teaching opportunities are provided at various district sites, both on and off the FWHS campus, giving students real-world experience in classroom settings.

As members of the Future Educators of Arizona Student Organization, students have the chance to develop leadership skills, participate in competitions, travel, and earn scholarships at both the state and national levels.

In the advanced stages of the program, students apply their skills through more in-depth teaching experiences. They are actively involved in planning and delivering lessons using iPad technology and other digital tools. Professional development opportunities help students further refine their teaching methods and classroom management skills, while teaching experiences extend to working with students of diverse age groups.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, as students engage in teacher observations, create online learning modules, and design comprehensive unit plans. In their roles as teacher cadets, they also develop interactive learning games and activities that foster student engagement. This program provides students with the opportunity to not only explore their passion for teaching but also gain the skills and experience required for a future in education.

Education Professions Technical Standards

Engineering

The Engineering Program offers a dynamic introduction to the field of engineering, providing students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in various engineering disciplines.

In the introductory course, students explore the diverse roles engineers play in society, discovering new career opportunities while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the engineering design process. Through engaging, real-world challenges, such as bridge design, green energy applications, and consumer product development, students apply math, science, and engineering standards. Working collaboratively in teams, they use 3D modeling software, rapid prototyping, and engineering notebooks to document their design solutions.

As students advance, they engage in more complex projects that mirror the rigor of university-level coursework, including Engineering 102 at the University of Arizona. Emphasis is placed on developing effective communication skills, such as technical writing and presentation techniques, which are critical for professional success in the field. Advanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills are honed through hands-on projects like building catapults, trebuchets, solar ovens, and LEGO robots, as well as engaging in complex real-world engineering design challenges.

For students concurrently enrolled in pre-calculus or higher-level math, dual enrollment opportunities allow them to earn college credit by passing the course with a grade of C or higher. The program’s integration of physics, math, and cutting-edge technology ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle the complexities of modern engineering.

Engineering Technical Standards

Fashion Design

The Fashion Design Program provides a comprehensive education in fashion design, garment construction, and the business of fashion, guiding students through every step of the creative and production process.

In the first year, students are introduced to the basics of fashion design and garment creation. They learn how to operate a sewing machine and produce a garment for themselves, while also exploring fashion drawing techniques, the elements and principles of design, and the historical influences on current trends. Students gain hands-on experience in the steps of garment production through various projects.

As students advance to Fashion II, they deepen their understanding of the fashion industry by working on retail operations. They take inventory, sort merchandise, create displays, and plan promotions, gaining valuable customer service and business skills. Fashion II students further develop their sewing abilities by making two garments from commercial patterns, learning advanced sewing techniques, and fitting garments to models.

In Fashion III, students take on more complex projects, creating a complete fashion design from initial sketch to finished garment. They learn how to alter commercial patterns and develop their own patterns using draping and flat pattern methods. Additionally, students play a key role in the production of the annual spring fashion show, gaining experience in fashion event management and showcasing their work.

In the final stage of the program, students focus on identifying and developing their unique design style. They create fashion collections that reflect their personal aesthetic and incorporate original textiles designed by them. Advanced techniques in textile design allow students to create custom fabrics that are integrated into their collections. Students also coordinate and produce the annual spring fashion show, giving them real-world experience in fashion show production and the opportunity to display their collections to a wider audience.

Fashion Design Technical Standards

Film

The Film Program provides students with a comprehensive education in the art and craft of filmmaking, offering hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques while emphasizing creativity and fine arts.

In the introductory course, students learn the fundamentals of filmmaking, including script writing, storyboarding, camera angles, shot types, and camera movement. Using professional equipment such as Digital SLR cameras, camcorders, Adobe Premiere, and Apple computers, students gain skills in both production and post-production. All class projects are modeled after industry practices. Students have opportunities to showcase their work in exhibitions and local competitions, and can join the Film Club to further their involvement in filmmaking.

As students advance, they take on more complex film genres such as documentaries, music videos, tutorials, and dramatic narratives. They explore the communicative power of filmmaking, using professional equipment to create films that engage with their community and address broader societal themes. Advanced post-production techniques are introduced, including video, audio, and motion graphic editing. Students also participate in statewide film competitions through the Film Club, further enhancing their filmmaking skills in real-world settings.

In the final stage of the program, students produce professional-level projects, including district assignments and creative films for entry into film festivals and contests. They continue to work with advanced equipment and editing software to refine their craft. These projects often require work both in and out of class, providing students with real-world experience in managing film productions. By the end of the program, students compile a professional reel that showcases their best work, preparing them for job applications and future advancement in the filmmaking industry.

Film and TV Production Technical Standards

Stagecraft

The Stagecraft Program offers students educational opportunities in the technical aspects of theater production, providing hands-on experience in various backstage and production roles essential to supporting live performances.

Throughout the program, students study a broad range of topics, including theater history, set design and construction, lighting, sound, scenic art, stage management, makeup design, and stagehand work. Students play a crucial role in supporting all productions within the Fine Arts department, gaining real-world experience by working behind the scenes to bring performances to life.

To enhance their learning, students are required to complete 20 hours of extracurricular work in the scene shop or backstage during FWHS Fine Arts performances. This practical component allows students to apply their skills in a live production setting, fostering collaboration, problem-solving, and professionalism. Participation in the program also requires both a parental safety agreement and a student conduct agreement to ensure a safe and productive learning environment.

Advanced students continue to deepen their understanding of theater production through more complex projects in set construction, lighting, sound, and stage management. They remain an integral part of supporting Fine Arts department productions and continue to fulfill the 20-hour extracurricular requirement.

This program equips students with the technical skills and hands-on experience necessary for careers in theater production, stage management, and the broader entertainment industry.

Stagecraft Technical Standards

ADE Professional Skills Standards