y Career and echnology Center

Western Montgomery Career andTechnology Center

Program Guide

...Your Future Success!

Where You Can...

BuildStyleCook UpFine-tuneExamineCreateComputeMold

Welcome .................................................................................................................... 3Frequently Asked Questions ..................................................................................... 4Arts/Graphic Communication Commercial Art ................................................................................................... 5 Graphic Design .................................................................................................... 6Construction Carpentry ............................................................................................................ 7 Electrical Occupations ......................................................................................... 8 Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning ................................................................. 9Health Services Health Careers Academy .................................................................................... 10 Health Science Technology ................................................................................ 11 Dental Occupations ........................................................................................... 12Hospitality Culinary Arts ..................................................................................................... 13Information Technology Computer Information Systems ......................................................................... 14Manufacturing Metal Technology .............................................................................................. 15Personal Services Cosmetology ...................................................................................................... 16 Early Childhood Education ............................................................................... 17 Environmental Design ....................................................................................... 18 Protective Services .............................................................................................. 19Transportation Automotive Technology ..................................................................................... 20 Collision Repair ................................................................................................. 21 Diesel Technology .............................................................................................. 22School-to-Work Learning Programs ...................................................................... 23Tech Prep .......................................................................................................24 Western Center: Get Involved! ..........................................................................25-26SOAR Program ....................................................................................................... 27

Table of Contents

The Western Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. For information regarding civil rights grievance procedures or access, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Donna Wilson, at 77 Graterford Road, Limerick, PA 19468, [email protected] or 610-489-7272.

...where we are proud to offer the opportunities, resources, experiences and support you need to shape your future. Whether you want to pursue a career right after graduation or have plans to attend college, our programs are designed to enhance your education with technical experience and to help you pursue your career goals while in high school.Our programs offer young people a first look at

the careers that will be in high demand in the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for employees in the health care, service occupations and construction fields will continue to grow over the next decade. At Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center, we are well aware of these statistics and are committed to providing our students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue the competitive careers of tomorrow.

Our HistorySince 1966, the Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center has served the school district communities of Upper Perkiomen, Spring-Ford Area and Pottsgrove. In recent years, the school has gone through a series of changes to ensure that the education our students receive is current and relevant. Probably the most recognizable and notable change in our history has been a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion project that enabled us to transform our classrooms and workshops into state-of-the-art learning laboratories.Along with this upgrade in facilities, we also changed

our name from the Western Center for Technical Studies to the Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center to better reflect the students we serve and the modern approach we take to vocational education. In addition, we restructured our program from a full day to a half day. The half-day schedule means students spend half their day at the Western Center, where they are able to focus solely on their career courses. The other half of the day is spent in their home high school, where they focus on academic courses. This structure enables students to maintain ties to their home high schools and allows them to participate in any extra-curricular activities their sending district has to offer.

Our MissionThe mission of the Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center is to prepare quality citizens for lifelong productivity in a challenging and changing world by forming innovative partnerships among family, school and community.

Our ProgramThe Western Center offers eight career clusters that are diverse, challenging and designed to prepare you for career and/or post-secondary education. The eight career clusters include arts/graphic communication, construction, health services, hospitality, information technology, manufacturing, personal services and transportation. On the pages that follow, please refer to sections on the individual career clusters to find out more about the technical programs offered and what is required of students in terms of physical capabilities and entry criteria.

Prior to enrolling at Western Center, you will want to do some preliminary career exploration to determine what technical program you want to pursue. This may include visiting our school during your eighth- or ninth-grade years to learn about our programs and offerings. Once you determine what program you want to study, you will work with your parents and guidance counselors at your home district and at Western Center to enroll in a specific career path.

Welcome to the Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center...

3

Q. Who can attend Western Center?A. Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 who live in Pottsgrove, Spring-Ford Area or Upper Perkiomen school districts may attend Western Center. Students will attend their technical programs at Western Center for half of their school day and spend the other half in academic classes at their high school.

Q. How will the Western Center help me?A. The education you’ll receive at Western Center will open doors for you. You’ll learn new skills that are valued by employers. You’ll experience real-life work situations in your chosen field. And you’ll have options to continue your education after high school.

Q. How do I enroll?A. Enrollment occurs when you meet with your high school guidance counselor during your ninth-grade year to select courses for the following school year. Prior to this, you may want to arrange to visit the Western Center or attend a Western Center presentation at your home school district so that you can learn about the various career clusters and determine which one is of most interest to you.

Q. What is the best time to enroll?A. The best time to enroll is in the spring, when

you select your courses for the following year. Each program is limited with regard to the number of students that can be accommodated, so applying as early as possible is encouraged.

Q. Do I need to determine what career I want to focus on before I enroll?A. Yes. In order to enroll, you must identify which technical program you want to pursue. While you will have a two-week window during which you can switch programs, the ability to switch can be affected by program availability and parent/counselor recommendation.

Q. May I participate in activities at my high school?A. Yes, you are encouraged to participate in athletics and extra-curricular activities at your school. In addition, you’ll have opportunities to make new friends and exercise your leadership abilities in the career and technical student organizations that are active at Western Center.

Q. Is college an option after Western Center?A. Absolutely! Many Western Center graduates continue their education in colleges, technical schools or apprenticeships. You can even earn college credit for some of the coursework you complete at Western Center.

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Frequently Asked ?s

COMMERCIAL ARTUNITS OF STUDY

Preprint/production

Drawing/illustration

Layout and design

Typography

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Manual dexterity

Strong hand-eye coordination

Good depth and color perception

POTENTIAL CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graphic designer

Art director

Illustrator

Desktop publisher

Multi-media artist and animator

Students who are creatively or artistically inclined will enjoy learning the tools and techniques used by successful commercial artists to translate a client’s needs into marketable artwork. The core curriculum is structured to include design, composition, layout, illustration, computer graphics, desktop publishing and electronic production. An excellent prelude to advanced post-secondary training in colleges and art schools, the Commercial Art program prepares students for careers in the fine arts, teaching or commercial arts.

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Arts/Graphic Communication…

Where You Can Your Future Success

Commercial Art

Create

GRAPHIC DESIGNUNITS OF STUDY

Introduction to graphic communication

and printing

Job production and management

Digital image preparation

Reproduction imaging

Image assembly

Platemaking

Press operations

Bindery and finishing operations

Desktop publishing and layout

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Manual dexterity

Strong hand-eye coordination


Pushing and pulling

Heavy lifting


Graphic designer

Electronic pre-press technician

Bindery operator

Desktop publisher

Offset press operator

Arts/Graphic Communication…


Graphic Design

Design

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Graphic communications occupations in Pennsylvania are projected to increase and this career is on the state High Priority List as well as the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Area High Priority List. Students who pursue the graphic design program will learn how a creative idea is carried through to the finished project, learning about everything from how to use software for the creation of illustrations and page design to the very technical aspects involved in images assembly, plate-making, press operations and binding and finishing.

CARPENTRYUNITS OF STUDY

Hand tools

Portable power tools

Building materials and estimating

Footings and foundations

Floor framing

Wall framing

Roofing

Exterior finish

Interior finish

Stair construction

Cabinet construction

Wood finishing

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Manual dexterity

Heavy lifting/carrying

Strong eye/hand coordination

Physical stamina/strength

Pushing/pulling



Rough carpenter

Construction carpenter

Cabinetmaker

Drywall installer

Framer

Roofer

Trim carpenter

Siding installer

Woodworker

Flooring installer

Construction…

Where You Can

Your Future Success

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ConstructCarpentry Certified by the National Center for Construction Education Research, the Western Center’s carpentry program prepares students for residential carpentry specializations including framing, roofing, siding, finish work or cabinet making. Students will learn the proper use of hand and power tools; site layout using the transit; residential framing including floor, wall and roof; exterior finish work including roofing and siding; door and window installation; installation of aluminum soffits, gutters, and down spouts; interior finish work including dry walling and hanging doors; interior trim work including installing hard wood flooring; blueprint reading; estimating; and introduction to construction management. All students participate in the construction of a new house through the Western Center House Building Project.

Western Center supports young women pursuing this

non-traditional career.

ELECTRICALOCCUPATIONS

UNITS OF STUDYElectrical theory

National Electrical Code

Blueprints and circuit diagrams

Residential/Commercial wiring techniques

Low voltage systems

Industrial motor control

Green technology

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Mechanical aptitude

Manual dexterity



Ability to distinguish color


Electrician’s helper

Electrician

Electro-Mechanical technician

Industrial maintenance mechanic

Fire alarm/Security systems technician

Electrical contractor

Electrical inspector

Electrical engineer

Construction…

Where You Can

Your Future SuccessElectrical Occupations The program is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education Research. Through a combination of classroom, laboratory and real-life experiences at the Western Center house project, students will be prepared to enter the workforce or to pursue further education. This program provides the students with entry-level skills to become both construction and maintenance electricians. Construction electricians lay-out, assemble, install, and test electrical systems. Maintenance electri-cians trouble-shoot, and replace defective equipment. They also perform preventive maintenance before a breakdown occurs. The curriculum covers residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Students will install communication, security, and other electrical systems, using both AC and DC circuits. Instruction is also provided for power distribution, emergency power systems, transformers, motors, controls, PLCs, and alternative energy concepts. The program also stresses the importance of safety, customer service, quality workmanship, and working as a team member.

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Wire Into

Western Center supports young women pursuing this non-traditional career.

HEATING/VENTILATION/

AIR CONDITIONINGUNITS OF STUDY

Installation and maintenance of air conditioning

and heating systems

Plumbing

Electrical wiring

Refrigeration technology

Blueprint reading

PHYSICAL CRITERIAManual dexterity




Self-motivated


Heating and air conditioning mechanic

and installer

Refrigeration mechanics and installer

Home appliance repairer

Control and value installer and repairer

Oil burner technician

Gas heat technician

HVAC technician’s assistant

Construction…


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BuildHeating/Ventilation/Air ConditioningStudents will receive knowledge and training in air conditioning, steam and hydraulic heating, temperature and humidity control, air circulation, duct and pipe system design and layout, thermostats, ventilating equipment, automatic controls, zoning controls, and air and water circulators. Students will learn to install and repair equipment in the lab and in actual field settings, with trade safety being an integral part of all instruction. The course is HVAC Excellence- and National Center for Construction Education Research-certified.



HEALTH CAREERSACADEMY

UNITS OF STUDYFoundations of health

Anatomy and physiology

Legal and ethical issues in health care

Economic aspects of health care

Laboratory procedures

Basic health occupational skills

Aseptic techniques

OSHA regulations and infection control

Medical terminology





Standing for many hours in one position


(with post-secondary education)

Registered nurse

Medical doctor

Pharmacist

Physical therapist

Occupational therapist

Respiratory therapist

Physician’s assistant

Health Services…


Health Careers AcademyOpen to seniors only, this program is designed for college preparatory students who are interested in pursuing a medical or health science career after high school. Students will learn basic skills in health and medical services and pharmaceutical and medical instruments and supplies, while the clinical portion of the course allows students to experience careers in various health care facilities. Mentors in specialty areas provide an overview of the scope and nature of practice, career opportunities, post-secondary education requirements, practical experience, integration of health care systems and ongoing professional development requirements.

To be admitted to the Health Careers Academy, students must have a 3.0 Grade Point Average or higher, good attendance and conduct records, letters of recommendation, approval from a science teacher or guidance counselor from their home high school, and a successful interview process. Students must also take a physical exam, including a negative TB test, Hepatitis B vaccinations and a drug screen. Students need to have their own transportation to and from health care sites, and may be required to purchase tools, uniforms and equipment.

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Examine

Western Center supports

young men pursuing this non-

traditional career.

Health Services…

Where You Can Your Future SuccessCare For

Health Science TechnologyStudents who would like to become nurse assistants or medical assistants can enroll in this program to learn skills that would enable them to work in long-term care facilities, hospitals or home care settings. Nursing Assistant program participants are instructed in skills, clinical rotation and theory as required by the American Red Cross Nurse Aide competency program. If all competencies are completed, students are eligible to take the state certification Nurse Aide Registry exam and CPR certification exam. Medical Assistant program participants are taught anatomy and physiology, nutrition, communication, pharmacology and medical ethics, and many other skills. First Aid certification and school-to-work opportunities are available.

Western Center supports young men pursuing this non-traditional career.

HEALTH SCIENCETECHNOLOGY

UNITS OF STUDYMedical terminology

Pharmacology


Nutrition

Phlebotomy

Pediatrics

CPR and First Aid

Direct patient care

PHYSICAL CRITERIAA physical exam with

documented negative two-step PPD testing and up-to-date

immunizations

Manual dexterity

Heavy lifting/carrying (minimum of 30 pounds)




CLEARANCE REQUIREDCriminal History – PA State Police


Health technologist and technician

Certified nursing assistant

Medical assistant

Nurse

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DENTALOCCUPATIONS

UNITS OF STUDYUniversal precautions/

OSHA regulations

Communication skills

Computer literacy


Microbiology and nutrition

Dental materials

Histology

Oral pathology and therapeutics

Office management

Dental emergencies

Legal/ethical aspects of dental practice

Periodontics

Dental laboratory procedures

Prosthodontics

Employability skills

PHYSICAL CRITERIAA physical exam with

documented negative two-step PPD testing and up-to-date

immunizations

Manual dexterity

Heavy lifting/carrying (minimum of 30 pounds)





Dental assistant

Surgical dental assistant

Orthodontic assistant

Health Services…


Dental Occupations

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Polish

The Dental Occupations program offers students who would like to become dental assistants or pursue a degree in dentistry the background and experience they need to get ahead in this increasingly in-demand career. Students will study everything from anatomy and physiology to pharmacology and radiology, as well as learn about procedures for running an office and complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. Students will take the first year core curriculum in conjunction with Health Sciences class.

CULINARY ARTSUNITS OF STUDY

Use and care of kitchen equipment

Cooking techniques

Food quality receiving and storage

Menu planning and costing

Table setting and service

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Manual dexterity







Chef

Cook

Pastry chef

Baker

Table server

Prep cook

Caterer

Executive chef

Preparation for successful careers in the food service industry is delivered through the study of and practice of food preparation, short-order and high-volume cooking and baking, customer service, and safety and sanitation. In Western Center’s kitchen, students develop hands-on skills in production by operating an in-school restaurant and assisting in the operation of the school cafeteria. Students supervising the dining room learn all the skills needed to work successfully in a fine restaurant.

Culinary Arts…


Culinary Arts

Cook Up

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COMPUTERINFORMATION

SYSTEMSUNITS OF STUDY

Basic hardware and software maintenance

Networking principles and technology

Network cabling

Internet technologies

PHYSICAL CRITERIA

Manual dexterity


Sitting/typing



Computer support specialist

Network systems and communications analyst

Computer operator

PC technician

Network installer

Information Technology…


Computer Information SystemsDesigned to train students interested in the field of information technology, this program focuses on basic and advanced hardware and software topics with an emphasis on networking. The program is based on industry-accepted standards and graduates are encouraged to pursue CCENT and CCNA certifications from CISCO.

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Compute

METALTECHNOLOGY

UNITS OF STUDYHand tools and bench work

Measuring tools

Blueprint reading and layout

Numerical control

Drilling processes

Grinding and lathe operations

Milling operations

Turning operations

Welding (MIG, TIG, ARC)





Standing for long periods of time


Tool and die maker

Machinist

Welder

Structural metal fabricator and fitter

Production technician

Manufacturing…


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Mold

Metal TechnologyIntroductory-level skills and knowledge necessary for entry into the machine trades tool and manufacturing industry are taught through the safe and proper operation of metalworking machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, precision grinders, drill presses and band saws. Bench work, hot treatment tools and the proper use of precision measuring tools and gauges is explained, demonstrated and utilized. A full welding component is offered, with emphasis on safe operation and technique of oxy-acetylene welding, electric arc welding and MIG welding. The program follows the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) competency list.

Western Center supports young women

pursuing this non-traditional career.

COSMETOLOGYUNITS OF STUDY

Artificial hair techniques

Hair cutting and styling

Hair coloring

Customer relations

Salon management

Perm and relaxing techniques




Ability to stand for long periods of time



Hairstylist/cosmetologist

Manicurist

Make-up artist

Skin care specialist

Salon owner

Nail technician

Personal Services…


Cosmetology

Style

The Western Center’s three-year program prepares students for the state’s professional licensing examination for cosmetologists and entry-level employment. Students can receive 1,250 hours of state-required instruction and develop skills in all aspects of cosmetology, such as sculpting, styling, perming, skin care, hair straightening and customer service. The school’s salon offers students a chance to get hands-on experience two days a week.

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Western Center supports young men pursuing this non-traditional career.

EARLY CHILDHOODEDUCATION

UNITS OF STUDYCPR and

First Aid certification

Nutrition

Child development

Structuring routines

Curriculum planning

PA Dept. of Welfare regulations

Infection control

Child self-help skills

Art, language arts, music, math, science, social

science activities

PHYSICAL CRITERIAHeavy lifting/carrying

Physical with TB test

Physical stamina


Preschool teacher

Kindergarten teacher

Teacher assistant

Day care worker

Assistant group supervisor

Nanny

Perfect for students who want to enter into the early childhood profession upon graduation or want to study education in college, the Early Childhood Education Program is a “teacher training” course that emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, healthy, positive, developmentally appropriate and high- quality care for young children. Classroom lessons are reinforced with hands-on experience in the on-site pre-school program. Participants must pass a physical and receive the following clearances: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History and FBI Federal Criminal History Record.



Early Childhood Education

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Plan

Western Center supports young men

pursuing this non-traditional

career.

ENVIRONMENTALDESIGN

UNITS OF STUDYTurfgrass management

Landscape maintenance

Landscape contracting

Floral design and design mechanics

Flower shop operations

Pest identification and management

Greenhouse operations





Pushing/pulling


Standing/kneeling for many hours in one position


Grounds maintenance worker

Horticulturist

Floral designer

Salesperson-horticultural and nursery products

Greenhouse worker

Landscape designer

Landscape construction worker

Arborist

Hardscaping worker


Where You Can Your Future SuccessEnvironmental Design

Cultivate

Students who enjoy working with plants in an innovative and construc-tive environment will gain valuable experience through the Environmental Design program. Hands-on opportunities include creating floral designs for weddings, school functions and holidays, maintaining school grounds, and crop management of perennials and annuals in the school’s greenhouse.

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PROTECTIVESERVICES

UNITS OF STUDYThe criminal justice system

Principles of criminologyCriminal investigation

proceduresJuvenile justice and

delinquencyDefense tactics and mechanics

of arrestReport writing

Law enforcement operations and procedures

Accident investigation and traffic enforcement

Emergency medical preparationFundamentals of emergency care

Fire prevention and suppression

Rescue and extricationCounty, state and

federal corrections

PHYSICAL CRITERIAPhysical conditioning

Manual dexterityHeavy lifting

Strong eye/hand coordinationPhysical stamina/strength

Walking, standing for long periods of time

Pushing/pulling/carryingGood depth and color perception

CLEARANCES REQUIREDPA Child Abuse History

Criminal History-PA State Police


Police officerFirefighter

Corrections officerEmergency medical technician

Police, fire, ambulance dispatcher

Security officer

Students in the Protective Services program have the opportunity to gain skills and knowledge valuable to a variety of protective service careers, including police officers, firefighters, military intelligence officers, private investigators and security consultants. Technical skills – such as fire rescue, basic firefighting, fingerprinting, crime scene investigation and photography – help prepare students for a number of different careers or for the study of criminal justice at the college level.



Protective Services

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Secure

Western Center supports young women

pursuing this non-traditional

career.

AUTOMOTIVETECHNOLOGY

UNITS OF STUDYAlignment diagnosis

and repair

Steering and suspension systems

Brake systems

Electrical systems

Wheel and tire repair

Lubrications and cooling systems

Emissions control systems

PA safety and emission inspection procedures


Heavy lifting




Automotive technician

Automotive service manager

Automotive reconditionist

Automotive service writer

Small business owner

Diagnostic technician

Brake/suspension specialist

Automotive salesperson/manager

Alignment specialist

Transportation…


Automotive TechnologyThe Automotive Technology program has been specifically designed to prepare students to continue their training at post-secondary schools. The program utilizes a combination of classroom instruction, computer-based learning and hands-on lab work for an effective learning process. Student enthusiasm is enhanced by the excitement of participating in various automotive skills competitions offering prizes and scholarship money. The program is Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and Automotive Youth Education Service (AYES) certified.

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Fine-tune

Western Center supports young women pursuing this non-traditional career.

COLLISIONREPAIR

UNITS OF STUDY

Safety instruction

Estimating

Customer relations

Frame and unit-body repair

Metal straightening

Welding and cutting

Panel replacement and alignment

Surface preparation

Masking and painting





Pushing/pulling




Automotive detailer

Auto body repairer

Damage analyst/estimator

Finish coat preparer/applicator

Transportation…


Collision Repair

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Students interested in the fields of collision and auto body repair will have the opportunity to gain entry level skills through classroom presentations, textbook readings and hands-on experiences. Students will have access to hand tools and power tools to perform various training activities, with an emphasis on safety, quality, productivity and teamwork. The program follows the Industry Curriculum of Automotive Repair (ICAR) curriculum and is certified by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

Drive



DIESELTECHNOLOGY

UNITS OF STUDYDiagnosis, servicing

and maintenance of diesel trucks

Suspension, steering, brake, cooling,

electrical systems

Transmissions

Reconditioning and replacement of parts

Auxiliary and accompanying power

State inspection code


Heavy lifting




Automotive technician

Automotive service manager

Automotive reconditionist

Automotive service writer

Small business owner

Diagnostic technician

Brake/suspension specialist

Automotive salesperson/manager

Alignment specialist

Transportation…

Where You Can

Your Future SuccessDiesel TechnologyDesigned to prepare students to repair and service diesel engines that power buses, trucks and construction machinery, the Diesel Technology program teaches participants how to diagnose engine malfunctions, disassemble engines, examine parts and more. Students receive a combination of classroom instruction, computer-based learning and hands-on lab work

to make sure they are properly trained for employment as diesel mechanics and technicians.

22

Accelerate



When employers seek out new employees, one of the most valuable skills a job seeker can list on a resume is that of experience. But for first-time job seekers, getting one’s foot in the door for that initial experience can be challenging. Through its

partnerships with various local businesses and industries, the Western Center offers a variety of school-to-work programs, such as clinical experiences, job shadowing and internships, which help students get the experience they need to be competitive.

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... Put Western Center Grads Ahead of the Competition

Q. How does it work?A. Students become eligible for school-to-work programs when they have completed two-thirds of their technical program curriculum, and this usually happens by a student’s senior year. Those who meet eligibility requirements and have an instructor’s recommendation can then meet with the School-to-Work Coordinator to find out where they might be able to work and what type of school-to-work option is right for them. Once an employer has been selected, the student will spend part of his or her school day working on location.

Q. How long is a typical job-to-work experience?A. It varies depending upon the availability of the employers, the requirements of a student’s technical program, and other factors. Some students might spend just a week, while others go twice a week for several months.

Q. How am I evaluated?A. Students are evaluated on their school-to-work experience by both the School-to-Work Coordinator and their employer. The evaluation factors into a student’s overall grade for the semester.

Q. Who can I work for?A. Western Center students have the ability to work at auto-collision repair shops, hospitals, child care centers, landscaping businesses and more. A variety of local businesses, such as Bermont Motors, Brown Printing, Three Peas in a Pod Florist, and the Goddard School, have been long-time partners with the Western Center and are committed to providing students with valuable, meaningful work experiences that prepare them for lucrative careers.

Q. If I am an employer interested in Western Center’s School-to-Work programs, who do I contact?A. Please contact Paul Woodman, School-to-Work Coordinator, at (610) 489-7272, ext. 218, for more information on partnerships with the Western Center.

School-to-Work Learning Programs ...

Giving Western Center

Students a Head Start on College Degrees

Tech Prep:

The Western Center participates in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Tech Prep Consortium, and through it has affiliations with a number of post-secondary institutions, including Montgomery County Community College and Pennsylvania College of Technology. Partnerships with these institutions mean that Western Center students have the opportunity to take college-level courses for credit while they are still in high school.

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Q. What is Tech Prep and how does it work?A. Students can enroll in the Tech Prep program as early as ninth grade — taking rigorous academic classes in their high school along with a technical program at Western Center. This prepares students for two- or four-year college programs and for entry into high-skill technical careers.

Q. Are there particular career paths for which Tech Prep is most appropriate?A. Post-secondary education is encouraged for every career path. Each and every student is encouraged to take a rigorous academic course load at his or her home high school to ensure preparation for post-high school education or training.

Q. How can I learn more?A. Meet with your guidance counselor at your high school and contact Western Center’s guidance department at (610) 489-7272, ext. 214. Counselors will work together to help plan a sequence of academic and technical courses that can help you pursue post-secondary options that will lead to a technical career.

For more information on earning college credits while enrolled, see page 27.

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Western Center

Today’s post-secondary institutions and employers seek students who not only know their subject matter, but can also demonstrate that their high school experience has been a well-rounded one. That’s why the Western Center offers a variety of clubs and organizations that provide students with opportunities for involvement, community service, and camaraderie. These groups include:

National Technical Honor Society (NTHS)

The NTHS is a nationally-based, non-profit honor organization for outstanding students enrolled in occupational or technical programs. The purpose of NTHS is to promote service, leadership, honesty, career development, and skilled workmanship; to reward student achievement; to encourage and assist student educational and career goal setting; and to promote the image of career and technical education in America.

Membership in the prestigious NTHS begins with a nomination by the technical instructor. It is limited to students who exhibit good character and leadership, and who plan to pursue a career in their fields of technical study. Candidates are evaluated based on school involvement, a review of previous school records, and approval by the NTHS advisor and school administration. Nominees are inducted into the organization in a formal ceremony in the spring each school year.

Get Involved!

26

Western Center

SkillsUSASkillsUSA is a national organization which brings students, teachers and industry repre-sentatives together to ensure America has a skilled work force. SkillsUSA provides opportunities for students to develop their potential through hands-on activities in the classroom and the community, where they will gain a better understanding of their community, local industry and their peers. All students at WCTS are eligible for membership in SkillsUSA and will have the opportunity to better themselves, the school and their communities. The SkillsUSA motto is “Preparing for leadership in the world of work.”

Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA)HOSA is the national technical organization for secondary, post-secondary and collegiate students enrolled in a health-related technical program. This organization provides students opportunities to develop leadership responsibilities, professional competencies, citizenship responsibilities, personal growth, and health career awareness.

Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)Students enrolled in the Culinary Arts and Early Childhood Education programs may become members of FCCLA. FCCLA promotes personal growth and leadership through family and consumer sciences education. Activities in this organization assist students in assuming their roles in society through home economics education in the areas of personal growth, family life, career preparation, and community involvement.

For the Future of Agriculture (FFA)FFA, a national organization, was established in 1928 and is the oldest career and techni-cal student organization. At Western Center, FFA is an integral part of the Environmental Design program, which prepares students for careers in agriculture, horticulture and forestry.

Get Involved!

Q. What is SOAR?A. SOAR stands for Students Occupationally and Academically Ready, and is a program that enables Western Center students to earn college credits while still in high school. It is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Bureau of Career and Technical Education. SOAR programs are designed to prepare today’s students for high-priority occupations that are in high demand by employers, have higher skill needs and are most likely to provide family sustaining wages.

Q. Why is a college education right for you? A. If you’re not sure, consider the following:• Often, students with four-year degrees return to their community college in order to earn technical degrees needed in the job market. • Many community college graduates earn certificates or associate degrees and can transfer to baccalaureate programs. • Students with two-year degrees may be employed at higher starting salaries than some four-year degree students.

Q. Why should I be interested in SOAR?A. Taking SOAR programs of study now can mean less time and less money spent on college classes in the future. Even if you don’t go to college, SOAR programs can help ensure that you stay on the right career pathway, that you enter the job market ready, and that you get a consistent education.

Q. How do you earn free college credits?A. You do it by meeting the following requirements:• Earn a high school diploma• Maintain a 2.5 Grade Point Average in your technical courses

• Achieve competent or advanced on the End of Program assessment (NOCTI, etc.)• Complete a competency task list at the proficient level or above• Earn industry certificates where available• Successfully apply to the college of your choice that offers your program of study

Q. What types of programs are offered through SOAR?A. Programs include everything from auto body/ collision and repair technology and carpentry to early childhood education and graphic communica-tions. Many programs mirror Western Center’s existing areas of study, and new ones are being added regularly. For a complete list of programs, visit http://www.education.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/programs_of_study

Q. Which post-secondary institutions will accept the credits I earn through a SOAR program?A. The Pennsylvania College of Technology, Montgomery County Community College and Bucks County Community College are just a few of the institutions that accept SOAR credits. For a complete list, please visit the Western Center Web site, www.westerncenter.org, and click on Student Services. Click on the SOAR icon to learn more.

Q. How do I get started?A. Talk to your guidance counselors at your home high school and the Western Center. These profes-sionals can help you determine which courses will be the best fit for you. Include college prep academic courses in your schedule to assure college success.

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Western Center Students Can to Future Success Through State Program

Western Montgomery Career andTechnology Center

77 Graterford Road Limerick, PA 19468

610.489.7272 phone 610.489.8778 faxwww.westerncenter.org

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y Career and echnology Center