Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an integral part of the comprehensive secondary education program in Wayne County Public Schools. Our mission is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed as world-class workers, lifelong learners, and responsible citizens in an ever-changing global economy.
CTE Vision
"Every student will have equitable access to engaging learning that prepares them to be competitive, collaborative, and successful in their global environment. Wayne County Public Schools (WCPS) Career and Technical Education (CTE) empowers all students to be successful citizens, workers, and leaders of our global economy."
Beginning in sixth grade and continuing through high school, students explore career interests while developing the academic, technical, and employability skills essential for future success. CTE programs reinforce core academic subjects such as English language arts, mathematics, science, and technology while fostering critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and independent learning. Middle school students also have access to Paxton Patterson learning labs that provide engaging, hands-on experiences designed to enhance classroom instruction.
As students progress through high school, they can pursue specialized coursework in Agricultural Education (AG); Business, Finance, and Marketing Education (BFM); Career Development Education (CD); Computer Science, Information Technology, and Technology Education (CSITT); Family and Consumer Sciences Education (FCS); Health Science Education (HS); and Trade and Industrial Education (T&I). These pathways prepare students for college, careers, military service, and industry-recognized credentials.
Each high school is supported by a Career Development Coordinator (CDC) who helps students connect their education to future career opportunities. CDCs also provide support services for students who need additional assistance to be successful in CTE courses, coordinate WorkKeys testing in partnership with the district’s Accountability Division, and assist students in earning a Career Readiness Certificate at no cost after successfully completing a CTE pathway. Students may also take advantage of dual enrollment opportunities through the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, allowing them to earn college credit while still in high school. Wayne County is proud to be recognized as an NC Eastern Region WORKREADY Community.
Wayne County Public Schools is committed to providing equal access to all Career and Technical Education programs. CTE courses are available to all students without regard to race, sex, national origin, or disability.