Clear Creek ISD : Leading the Way
in Workforce Readiness
It ’ s not every day that high school students get the opportunity to sit shoulderto-shoulder with NASA engineers and scientists , receive training in a state-ofthe-art culinary kitchen , or learn how to use computer diagnostic programs , automotive tools and other equipment .
But in Clear Creek ISD , that ’ s a reality .
By : Shannon Daughtry , Communications Specialist www . ccisd . net sdaughtry @ ccisd . net
Every day in Clear Creek ISD , students across the district are working towards preparing for their futures .
Whether that means attending a four-year university or entering the workforce after graduation , students are prepared through a variety of career and technical education programs that not only give students real life experiences , but reinforces state and national academic standards through training in career areas of interest to them . Through rigorous technical instruction , students are able to gain hands-on experience by actively participating in authentic real-world problem solving and projects .
Projects like constructing a high-grade aluminum and stainless steel table that now flies on the International Space Station and serves as a meeting place , and dinner spot , for NASA astronauts .
Students also get the chance to work in a commercial-grade kitchen , called Bistro Urbano , where they can experience cooking for customers while delivering top-notch service .
Beginning this fall , another program will be added to the long list of career and technical education programs offered in the district . Now , students will be able to participate in a two-year dentistry program , where high school students will learn about the dental profession as well as become registered dental assistants .
Starting in Fall 2017 , this program will be housed at Clear Creek High School and will include space for the district ’ s very own dental lab .
Students will have the opportunity to learn standard medical office procedures and participate in internships at area dental offices where they will experience preparing patients for dental procedures , assist dentists during procedures and take patient X-rays .
Students in the program will also learn how to teach patients about proper oral health , ensure the sterility of the dental environment and work with suppliers .
Clear Creek ISD is excited about the partnerships it has with business and industry that give students a chance to spend time in work-based learning programs such as paid or unpaid internships .
Clear Creek ISD also offers career programs in biotechnology , broadband communications , computer maintenance and networking , cosmetology and metal manufacturing . There are more than 15 certifications students can earn by the time they graduate from high school .
“ We have some incredible industry partnerships in our community ,” Superintendent Dr . Greg Smith said . “ We are excited to help bridge the gap between students and industry and help equip the next generation of workers with the skills they need to succeed and compete in the real world .”
33 MOMENTUM / August 2017