Education & Human Services

Benefits of the Pathway

In 2019, MHS added Education and Human Services as its 12th Career and Technical Education program career pathway after analyzing current career opportunities and future employment projections. This research shows a growing need for qualified people in education and human services careers, including teachers and social workers.

Through this career pathway, students are exposed to the many career opportunities with family-sustaining wages available in these industries. They learn about employer expectations as well as the challenges they may face through real-life learning experiences. Learning environments include classroom and professional office simulation spaces where students can take their understanding and academic growth to the next level—increasing their knowledge each school year.

Coursework

As freshmen, students explore careers in education, social work, counseling, and other related areas. Sophomores narrow their focus and discover the professional expectations and degree requirements for that career. During this time, students also regularly hear from guest speakers who are experts in these fields and take part in observational and collaborative learning experiences with elementary students.

Junior year is focused on gaining an understanding of equity and bias, inclusive learning environments, social emotional safety, differentiated instruction, cultural responsiveness, formative assessments, and reflective practices.  In addition, juniors complete a more intensive field experience and research project.

Seniors have the opportunity to participate in work-based learning experiences and encouraged to engage in internships related to their specific area of interest.