Every February, Career Technical Education (CTE) Month shines a spotlight on programs that equip students with real-world skills for future success in college, careers and beyond.
Creekside and San Joaquin High School students have the opportunity to take CTE college and career readiness courses that provide hands-on learning experiences while building teamwork, leadership, creativity and problem-solving skills. These pathways allow students to gain industry-specific knowledge while also developing transferable professional skills that can lead to success in any career field or college program.
CTE Pathways at Creekside High School
Creekside High School offers a variety of CTE pathways designed to align with industry trends and workforce needs, including:
- Digital Arts & Media: Build skills in digital photography and computer graphics for personal interest or a future in digital media, with opportunities for certificates, degrees, and careers in marketing and graphic design.
- Hospitality, Tourism & Recreation: Prepares students for careers in culinary, hospitality, and tourism through academics and training in customer service, event planning, and business management.
- Building & Construction Trades*: This program combines hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare students for careers in construction, carpentry, and skilled trades.
- Health Sciences & Medical Technology*: Prepares students for healthcare careers through hands-on training and exposure to fields like biology, anatomy, medical technology and patient care.
- Information & Communication Technologies*: This pathway begins with programming and advances to AP Computer Science and Data Structures, leading to careers in software engineering, IT, and cybersecurity.
- Public Services*: Prepares students for careers in law enforcement, fire-fighting, emergency medical services, public administration, and public safety through academic and practical training.
- Education, Child Development & Family Services*: This pathway blends academics and hands-on training in child development, education, and family dynamics to build knowledge in child psychology, teaching, and support services.
* Afterbell program, courses open to all IUSD students
Alignment with Growing Industries and Careers
While each school’s pathways may vary, the pathways offered are directly in line with some of the fastest-growing occupations and industries in the region. The Orange County Center of Excellence reports that Information Communication Technology, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Education & Human Development rank in their top priority sectors for 2025-2029.
Just as important, many of these careers offer wages that support financial stability. The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult in Orange County needs to earn about $32.20 per hour. Entry-level ICT jobs exceed this level at $37.82 per hour, and other priority fields also rank among the top-paying careers.
Through our various pathways, we are working to ensure students are prepared for future success, whether in college or the workforce.
Connections with Industry Leaders
In addition to the diverse range of CTE pathways offered, IUSD has created partnerships with local businesses, organizations and industry leaders – such as UCI Health, CEO Leadership Alliance OC and Edwards Lifesciences – to enhance student learning experiences.
Through these partnerships, we can provide students with actual or simulated work-based learning opportunities, such as internships for high school juniors. To learn more about the internship opportunities, visit the CEO Leadership Alliance OC website. The deadline to apply for the summer 2026 internship opportunity is February 15.
Coastline Regional Occupational Program (ROP)
IUSD offers classes through the Coastline Regional Occupational Program (ROP). Coastline ROP is a CTE provider that prepares our students for a wide range of careers and further educational opportunities. Coastline ROP is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and classes are taught by fully credentialed teachers who are experienced in their related industries.