Spring Branch ISD eighth graders recently got an exciting preview of the many career and technical education (CTE) opportunities available in high school. Students toured the Guthrie Center and the newly renovated SBISD Agricultural Science Center, discovering programs, pathways, and hands-on learning experiences that make CTE a launchpad for future success.

During the tours, students learned about more than 26 programs of study across 13 career pathways including barbering, electrician training, culinary arts, videography, architecture and more. They also participated in hands-on activities and brought home information to share with their families as they begin planning for high school course selections.

The tours included a visit to the modernized Agricultural Science Center, a major upgrade funded by the 2022 Bond Program, and a sneak peek at the Guthrie Center construction site. When it opens next year, the Guthrie Center will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and collaboration spaces designed to support CTE students.

“Exploring CTE is all about showing students what’s possible,” said Christina Rice-Imumwen, SBISD Director of CTE. “These tours are an important step in helping them connect their passions with future career opportunities.”

For students, the visits were eye-opening. “I didn’t know I could learn barbering or take culinary classes in high school,” said James Diaz, an 8th grader at Spring Forest Middle School (SFMS). “Now I’m excited to think about what I might want to try next year.”

Beyond the Guthrie Center, middle and high school campuses across SBISD also feature labs and classrooms for onsite CTE instruction. Students can take courses at their home campus or choose options at the Guthrie Center. Some programs even begin at the home campus before advancing to more in-depth coursework at Guthrie.

Every CTE class in SBISD is taught by industry professionals who bring real-world expertise and passion to their teaching. Their mission is to prepare students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in both college and careers.

Families are encouraged to learn more about CTE pathways and course offerings at springbranchisd.com/CTE.