Where am I going to go...
and how am I going to get there?

Decisions you make now will impact your future. Choose courses that help you with many careers of your choice!

Did you know?

Over 50% of the jobs that today's students will work in have not yet been created.
CEO's of local businesses report that the following skills are lacking in today's entry level workers: basic business conduct, teamwork and cooperation, problem solving and decision making, communication skills.

Emphasis in the 9th and 10th Grade

Freshmen (9th grade) focus on "Who Am I?" Students determine their strengths and weaknesses, interests, and learning styles in 9th Grade Seminar classes. Personal portfolios are developed and written in conjunction with the literary work, The Odyssey. Students also focus on, "What Are My Options?" by participating in the Choices computerized skills inventory. Once skills are identified, corresponding career choices and educational requirements are summarized. Students also participate in a two hour assemble titled, "The Value of An Education."

Sophomores (10th grade) focus on Career Awareness. Sophomore classes invite guest business speakers to inform and educate students about Careers. Furthermore, all Sophomores are encourage to attend "Discovering Careers". Discovering Careers is a step toward answering the age old question: “What do I want to be when I grow up?” We believe that at least part of the answer to this question lies in the opportunity to explore in a “hands-on” approach. Discovering Careers has over 40 employers from the different industry sectors enabling students to really see and experience careers that are available to them.

Emphasis in the 11th and 12th Grade

Juniors (11th grade) - Where Do I Go From Here?
During the first semester, all juniors attend an all day off-campus conference called, "Connecting to Success". There is a keynote address and breakout sessions, all taught by local business leaders. Topics covered include: Ethics in the Workplace, Financial Literacy, and Communicating your Values. The second major event is held during the second semester when all students are required to participate in a four hour Job Shadow. Students identify a career option of their choosing and arrange to attend the workplace for at least a half day to experience the work enviornment.

Seniors (12th grade) - How Am I Going to Get There?
Seniors Focus on the transition process for post high school life. Every senior is required to take the
Career Exploration Project Class, a one-semester class involving a minimum 45 hour internship with a mentor. During the second semester, a financial workshop is provided for seniors in their Econ./Govt. classes. The Financial Literacy workshop is conducted by local business leader, Sally Taylor.

Career Path Oppurtunities

There are sixteen different career path options available for students. A career path offers students an opportunity to concentrate on specific courses in a cluster that will reward them with certification within the path. Students may earn a certificate of completion within a career path area with as few as six courses, including a 45 hour internship.

Career Paths Available to VHS Students
Students are encouraged to sign up for a career path in their somphomore and junior year. Signups are done in the counseling Center with Mrs. White. Each career path also has a faculty advisor. Current career path options at VHS include: Business, Graphic Communications, Video Production, Legal Services, CAD, Journalism, Engineering, Information Technology, Studio Art, Hospitality - Tourism and Recreation, Human and Social Services, Medical and Fitness Foundations, Leadership Studies, Teaching, Theater Arts, and Vocal Music. Seniors graduating with one or more career path certificates are honored with a separate awards presentation and a cord to wear at graduation.