To spread awareness of the Career Technical Education courses at all secondary sites, PAUSD hosted a Career Theme Pathways Open House on Jan. 19 at the Media Arts Center. The event featured award ceremonies for educators and informational discussions with incoming freshmen and their parents regarding the CTE programs.

At the event, biology teacher Elizabeth Brimhall was honored with two awards for her collaboration with Project Lead the Way, Stanford Anesthesiology Department, and California Society of Anesthesiology. She was recognized for delivering transformative learning experiences to her students.

During the event, attendees met representatives from various classes, including students and teachers connected to the CTE program.

Lead Organizer Ariane Tuomy, who is also a  curriculum and career facilitator, said the district offers over 100 CTE courses.

With such a variety of courses, Brimhall said it is key for students to take advantage of learning about potential careers and planning their futures by gaining new experiences through the CTE pathways.

“It’s important for the education system to have students (focus) not just about college but what’s beyond college,” Brimhall said.

Senior Eliana Friedman said her course on early childhood development sparked a newfound passion for teaching and working with younger students.

“CTE courses are more engaging and hands-on, and I think it’s a really valuable experience and opportunity,” Friedman said.

Gabby Felch, a seventh grade student at JLS Middle School representing the school’s Culinary program, said the open house event allowed students who might not know about CTE courses to explore the district’s opportunities.

Felch said, “I think the exposure was (effective), and it is good for (students) to open their minds to different possibilities.”