Career Path Program

Program Director: Craig Van Houten
Administrative Assistant: Denny Dreher
Information: (760) 631-5846

The Career Path program is an independent study program designed for youth ages 14-19. The program is customized to the student so that the knowledge gained is based on their career interests and life goals resulting in a more personally meaningful educational experience. All students learn about themselves; their interests, abilities, experiences and values; and how these relate to the working world.

Learning how to learn is a key component of the program and is equally important as learning how to read, write, speak, and calculate effectively. Thus, Career Path students learn how to study effectively and how their learning "styles" can match a variety of learning resources. While learning is the students' responsibility, our high quality teachers guide them in becoming more successful by selecting the best materials and strategies to achieve specific educational objectives. Weekly meetings between teachers and students are required. Students also interact with their peers in small group classes, collaborative projects and team building workshops.

Similarly, how our students learn is also complimentary to their learning styles. Students may choose to learn from books, computer-based instructional materials, or individual and group projects. College preparation courses and vocational training courses are available depending on the requirements of the student's chosen field. As students improve their knowledge and skills, they are expected to work or volunteer in their related field. Opportunities to continue their education and to connect with relevant local employers are also available. 

The Guiding Principles of the Career Path program include:

1. Student choice and responsibility. While the program provides continuous contact with qualified teachers who are committed to individual student learning, the student must accept responsibility for setting and achieving educational and career objectives.
2. Academic learning relates to individual student goals, and to college and employer expectations.
3. The program offers connections to employers and the culture of the workplace.
4. Learning opportunities are provided in a variety of forms, and provide students with the skills necessary to compete for jobs in their chosen career field or opportunities for continued education.
5. The program provides positive peer support and leadership development opportunities.