HANDS-ON LEARNING
Students gain experience through classroom activities, projects and real-world school placements.
COLLEGE CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES
Students may earn articulated college credit through approved college partnerships.
HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS
Explore careers in education, childcare, special education and student support services.
CAREER READY SKILLS
Students develop professionalism, communication, leadership and teamwork skills.
Explore the program through the eyes of students as they share their experiences, favorite projects and the opportunities they've discovered through CTE.
Course Overview
Education Occupations introduces students to career opportunities in the field of education. Students study child development from birth through high school, brain development research, teaching strategies, education related careers and the roles and responsibilities within the pre K through 12 school system.
Students have opportunities to:
Explore teaching strategies, lesson planning and classroom technology
Work independently and collaboratively on classroom projects and presentations
Gain real-world experience through placements in area schools and preschools
Students also learn about professionalism, communication, classroom expectations and the qualities that help make an effective educator.
What You’ll Learn
Students explore how children learn, grow and develop from infancy through high school while building the skills needed for careers in education and childcare.
Areas of study include:
Child Development, Learning & Observation
Communication, Language Development & Classroom Interaction
Lesson Planning, Storytelling & Active Learning Strategies
Health, Safety, First Aid & Professional Work Ethics
Potential Careers
Preschool, Elementary or Special Education Aide
Nanny or Childcare Provider
Infant-Toddler Home Visitor
Childcare Center Aide
Lunch or Bus Aide
With additional education and training:
Preschool, Elementary or Special Education Teacher
Childcare Center Director
Social Services Worker
Infant-Toddler Specialist
Children's Librarian
Is This Program For You?
This program may be a good fit if you:
Enjoy working with children
Are friendly and caring
Have strong speaking and writing skills
Are organized and detail oriented
Can accept responsibility
Work well as part of a team
Are creative and enjoy problem solving
Are interested in teaching or childcare careers
See how Education Occupations helped Jillian Yule and Jennifer Slack's pursue their career goals. Read their CTE Success Story.
Program Schedule
A.M. Session
8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
P.M. Session
12:20 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.
Length of Program
One year, two semesters
Second year optional for qualified students
Learning Environment
Students split time between classroom instruction, area schools and preschools. Classroom learning focuses on child development and how children grow physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. School and preschool placements give students opportunities to practice what they are learning in real classroom settings.
Second-Year Requirements
Have good attendance
Maintain a B average
Be a team player
Demonstrate a positive attitude
Be self-directed and independent
Show interest in an education career
Maintain strong work habits
College Credit Opportunities
High school credit
Fourth-year math-related credit
CTE Certificate of Completion
Articulated college credit through approved college partnerships
Potential classroom paraeducator employment requirements
College Partnerships
Central Michigan University
Delta College
Ferris State University
Mid Michigan College
Saginaw Valley State University
“Education Occupations is a blend of classroom activities, projects and collaboration, along with a strong emphasis on professionalism and gaining real-world experiences in classroom placements. Self-motivated students with an interest in working with children will excel and find leadership opportunities through the program.”
Bridget Forsberg
Education Occupations Instructor
