Free dual college credits. Skills that lead to high-paying jobs. Hands-on classes that stress the latest technical skills for industry. These are just a few attributes of many half-day programs offered by Porter County Career and Technical Education (PCCTE). Many future nurses, mechanics, machinists and chefs get a start on their professions in these elective classes.
Most programs offered through PCCTE will welcome potential students on the evening of Nov. 29 and during the day on Dec. 4. (A complete schedule is attached to this email). Parents are also welcome. Some schools will send students on field trips or allow them an excused absence. A visit will typically last 30 to 60 minutes.
The 30-plus programs will also welcome visitors on Feb. 5.
Interested sophomores and juniors will apply for spots in CTE programs by submitting an application to the local high school guidance counselor. Having backup choices is strongly recommended.
Almost 1,100 juniors and seniors from 10 area high schools annually take half-day programs ranging from Culinary Arts to Diesel Mechanics to Computer Tech Support. Many programs offer dual college credits, and there is no cost connected with most of these credits. The programs help students get started on their careers and help them attain Academic Honors Diploma or Technical Honors Diploma in Indiana. CTE programs are also an important part of Indiana’s new pathway initiative.
The newest class, Construction Trades: HVAC, will be offered in 2019-20 at Ivy Tech Community College if there is enough demand. There is strong demand for technicians to service air conditioning and heating units.
High schools served are Boone Grove, Chesterton, Hebron, Hobart, Kouts, Morgan Twp., Portage, Valparaiso, Washington Twp. and Wheeler. Applications for CTE programs are available from guidance offices at these 10 schools.
For more information, check out the PCCTE website at www.pccte.org or call (219) 531-3170. The complete preview day schedule is on the website under the Enrollment tab.