February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to spotlight courses that prepare students with real-world skills for college, careers, and life. At YES Prep, we’re proud to offer classes that equip students with the tools they need to communicate effectively, manage their time, and set big goals for the future. 

One of the most important experiences for our students starts in 9th grade with a course that builds confidence and essential life skills: Interpersonal Studies and Professional Communication (ISPC). 

What is This Course All About? 

Think of it as a life skills boot camp for high school. This required class blends two key Texas CTE courses to help students master: 

• Study habits that set them up for success in high school and beyond 

• Self-advocacy skills—learning how to speak up for themselves in class, college, and the workplace 

• Communication skills—from writing emails to giving presentations to telling their own story with confidence 

Sharing Steward, a teacher at YES Prep North Central Secondary, knows how important these lessons are: 

“By taking ownership of this space, students build the confidence to one day give back and create opportunities for others in their community.” 

Spotlight on the Digital Portfolio Project 

This quarter, students are working on an exciting digital project that helps them develop their personal brand—just like professionals do when applying for jobs or internships. 

Using Canva, an online graphic design platform, students are building interactive digital portfolios that include: 

• An “About Me” page designed to grab the attention of college admissions officers 

• A showcase of their strengths, talents, and achievements through writing, visuals, and video 

• A dynamic introduction video to sharpen public speaking and presentation skills 

This project isn’t just for a grade—it’s a head start on college applications and future career opportunities. 

Craig Wisniewski, Instructional Technology, Electives & CTE Specialist, who designs the course curriculum, explains: 

“Digital portfolios empower students to showcase their learning journey, growth, and skills, going beyond traditional assessments to demonstrate their strengths in a meaningful way.” 

What’s Next? More Courses to Explore! 

This course is just the beginning! As students move through high school, they’ll have even more opportunities to explore classes that match their passions and career goals. 

• 8th Grade – All students take Principles of Information Technology for high school credit 

• 10th-12th Grade – Students can dive deeper into courses like Digital Media, Fundamentals of Computer Science, and AP Computer Science Principles 

• Campus-Specific Offerings – Some schools also offer Anatomy and Physiology, Money Matters, and Audio/Video Production I 

Jessie Crandall, Director of Instructional Technology and Career Education, shares why these courses matter: 

“These programs bridge the gap between education and workforce demands by providing hands-on learning and real-world experiences. Our goal is to ensure that students graduate as tech-literate individuals, fully prepared to excel in college and thrive in high-demand careers.” 

Why This Course Matters for Your Child 

Whether your student dreams of becoming a doctor, an engineer, an entrepreneur, or a digital designer, courses like this provide a strong foundation to help them get there. During CTE Month, we celebrate the impact of these classes and the incredible students and teachers bringing them to life! 

Enroll at YES Prep – Limited Seats Available! 

Want your child to experience high-quality, college-ready education in a supportive community? YES Prep is still accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year! 

Don’t miss your chance to give your child the education they deserve. Apply today and set them up for a bright future!  

Submit your application TODAY – Enroll at YES Prep!