CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE): General Information

"Career Technical Education (CTE) at Mulholland Middle School provides students of all ages with the academic and technical skill, knowledge and training necessary to succeed in future careers and to become lifelong learners.

In total, about 12.5 million high school and college students are enrolled in CTE across the nation. CTE prepares these learners for the world of work by introducing them to workplace competencies, and makes academic content accessible to students by providing it in a hands-on context. In fact, the high school graduation rate for CTE concentrators is about 90% - 15 percentage points highter than the national average."

- Robotics Magnet

Engineering Teacher:

Mr. Gendernalik

mgendern@lausd.net

PLTW: Pathway to Engineering

The Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering pathway is a sequence of hands-on, real-world, problem-solving courses. These courses start in middle school and continue in high school and beyond.

Students in the Engineering Pathway will apply science and engineering concepts related to biomechanics (robotics). They will design, test, construct circuits, create devices and work collaboratively on class projects.

One of their projects will to be build and modify a model fuel cell car. In the spring, student teams will have an opportunity to compete in a four hour model car race.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What it the level of math required for the CTE Engineering Pathway?

It is helpful for a student if math is an area of strength. In general, it is expected that students understand grade level math concepts.

What is a pathway?

A pathway is similar to an elective but so much more. A pathway refers to a sequence of courses in a specific field. For example. Mulholland Middle School has an Engineering Pathway. Students in this path would take Design and Modeling in the 8th grade. This class would prepare students for high school engineering classes and eventually a career in this area. Unlike a pathway, an elective refers to a class that does not lead to a career.

What does it meant to be hands-on?

Students learn by doing. For example, student teams in the Engineering Pathway will be given a model fuel cell car that they have to assemble, modify and race.

What are the goals of the program?

Two of the most important goals of the program are:.

Provide equitable and inclusive opportunities for all students
Increase the number of students who pursue engineering programs that result in certification or a college degree.