Career & Technical Education

The mission of Career and Technical Education at Floretta P. Carson Visual and Performing Arts Academy is to provide a rigorous, standards-based educational program aligned with Alabama Career and Technical Education guidelines that equips students in grades 7–12 with the academic, technical, and employability skills necessary for success in high-demand careers, postsecondary education, and lifelong learning. Through industry-aligned coursework, hands-on learning experiences, career exploration, and leadership development opportunities, students are empowered to identify their interests and aptitudes, develop workforce readiness skills, earn credentials where applicable, and graduate prepared to contribute confidently and competitively to business, industry, and the global economy.

Career & Technical Education Program at FPC

Career & Technical Education Overview

Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Floretta P. Carson Visual and Performing Arts Academy provides students with real-world career skills through rigorous, standards-based instruction aligned with Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) guidelines. Our programs include SDE-approved curricula, industry-standard equipment and facilities, engaged business and community partners, and appropriately certified teachers delivering comprehensive programs of study.

CTE at FPC equips students with foundational entry-level skills needed to enter the workforce, pursue industry credentials where applicable, and continue into postsecondary technical training or higher education. In addition to technical competencies, our programs emphasize employability skills, leadership development, problem-solving, collaboration, and professionalism—preparing students for success at home, in the community, and in the workplace.

Our current Career and Technical Education departments include:

Career Preparedness
- This course focuses on three major areas of instruction: academic planning, career development, financial literacy, and technology skill applications. Students learn teamwork and how to prepare themselves for the business world. This course uses the Smart Works Ethic curriculum to assure that students have the soft skills that are necessary to be college and career ready.
Animation
- The Animation program introduces students to the principles of digital media production and animation design. Students explore the foundations of visual storytelling, character development, storyboarding, motion principles, and 2D and 3D animation techniques. Instruction includes hands-on training using industry-relevant software and technology to design animated shorts, motion graphics, and multimedia projects.
- Students learn essential technical skills such as timing, sequencing, rendering, digital illustration, audio integration, and editing, while also applying creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Emphasis is placed on project-based learning, portfolio development, and understanding career pathways in animation, film production, game design, digital media, and entertainment industries. The course prepares students for entry-level positions, postsecondary study, and industry-recognized credential opportunities where applicable.
Advertising and Graphic Design
- The Advertising and Graphic Design I course provides students with foundational skills in visual communication and brand development. Students study design principles, typography, color theory, layout techniques, digital imaging, and marketing concepts to create effective visual messages for print and digital platforms.
- Through hands-on projects, students design logos, advertisements, promotional materials, social media graphics, and branding packages while learning to use professional graphic design software and tools. Instruction integrates creativity with strategic thinking, emphasizing how design influences consumer behavior and communicates ideas effectively.

Through innovation, creativity, and industry-aligned instruction, Floretta P. Carson Visual and Performing Arts Academy remains committed to developing a highly skilled, workforce-ready generation prepared to meet the demands of a competitive and evolving global economy.

Career & Technical Education Advisory Program

The Floretta P. Carson Visual and Performing Arts Academy is committed to strengthening and expanding its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in alignment with the guidelines established by the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Career and Technical Education standards. Our goal is to ensure that students are provided with rigorous, standards-based instruction that integrates academic and technical skills, industry-relevant training, and workforce readiness competencies needed to successfully enter postsecondary education, advanced training, or the local workforce.

The purpose of the Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee is to support continuous program improvement by ensuring curriculum, instructional materials, technology, and equipment remain current and aligned with state CTE course standards, industry expectations, and labor market demands. The committee also plays a vital role in strengthening partnerships between the school and local business and industry leaders, fostering collaboration that enhances work-based learning opportunities, career exploration, credential attainment, and real-world application of skills.

In accordance with Alabama CTE requirements, the Advisory Committee meets at least twice annually to review program goals, assess program effectiveness, provide recommendations for improvement, and ensure alignment with workforce needs within our region.

Business and industry representatives who are interested in contributing their expertise and supporting the development of workforce-ready students are encouraged to participate. For more information about joining the CTE Advisory Committee, please contact Ms. Gwendolyn Preston, CTE Director at gpreston@fpcvpaa.com