As Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month comes to an end, Frenship ISD is celebrating the strength, opportunity, and impact of its CTE programs as they prepare students for life beyond high school. Across the district, students are gaining real-world experience, earning industry credentials, and building skills that position them for success in college and in the workforce.
Frenship ISD offers 33 CTE programs of study, providing students at both Frenship High School and Frenship Memorial High School with access to a wide range of career pathways and industry-aligned learning experiences. Both high schools offer the same CTE opportunities, ensuring consistency and access for all students as the district continues to grow.
Ira Florez, the Frenship ISD Director of Career and Technical Education, explained that CTE prepares students for future careers by offering programs designed to meet a wide range of postsecondary goals.
“Whether students plan to enter the workforce, enroll in a technical or trade program, or attend college, CTE pathways provide hands-on, real-world learning aligned to industry standards,” said Florez.
Through these programs, students develop technical expertise while also strengthening employability skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. The district offers more than 30 industry-based certifications, allowing students to graduate with credentials recognized and valued by employers. These certifications provide students with a competitive edge while supporting college and career readiness.
Career exploration at Frenship begins well before high school. In elementary school, students are introduced to a variety of careers, building early awareness of future possibilities. At the middle school level, students participate in exploratory courses designed to help them discover their interests and strengths while learning about different career pathways.
By high school, students move into structured programs of study with rigorous coursework, hands-on learning experiences, industry-aligned skills, and opportunities to earn certifications and college credit. This intentional approach ensures students are learning about careers and actively preparing for them.
In addition to classroom learning, students can participate in career-focused organizations that extend their learning and leadership development, including HOSA Future Health Professionals, FFA, DECA, Business Professionals of America, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, SkillsUSA, and FIRST Robotics Competition. These organizations provide opportunities for leadership growth, competition, hands-on skill application, and industry engagement, helping students build confidence and professionalism.
Throughout CTE Month, Frenship ISD highlighted programs in action across the district, showcasing students gaining hands-on experience in fields such as media production, culinary arts, and mentorship. Each program reflects the district’s commitment to meaningful learning that connects classroom instruction to future careers.
Florez explained that the diverse range of programs offered by Frenship provides students with the opportunity to discover their interests.
“Offering a wide variety of CTE programs is important because it ensures every student has the opportunity to explore and pursue a pathway that aligns with their interests, strengths, and future goals,” Florez said. “This commitment helps students build skills, confidence, and a clear direction for their future, setting them up for success in whatever life path they choose.”
Frenship ISD remains committed to expanding opportunities and equipping students with the knowledge, certifications, and experiences they need to graduate prepared for what comes next. At Frenship, Career and Technical Education is more than a program, it is a foundation for future success.