Metropolitan Education District

“When I joined the class, I was not very confident with my art skills,” Chloe said. “I didn’t even take an art class before. … After taking this class I’ve seen massive improvement in my style.”

At the heart of the program lies flexibility. Unlike traditional classrooms, students enjoy the liberty to explore their ideas without the constraints of a specific prompt or art style. 

 

“There’s a lot of freedom in this classroom because in other classrooms at my home school, it’s very restrictive with the criteria that my teacher would require,” Vivian said. “They require us to do things in a certain way.”

 

The program’s emphasis on individual expression is complemented by the use of industry-standard tools. These products provide students with hands-on learning and comprehensive skill development.

 

“We’re using Adobe products that I’ve never really used before, and it’s great that the school provided that for free for us,” Chloe said. 

 

Collaboration is also key in the program's ambitious projects, exemplified by Chloe, Vivian, and Sophia's meticulous planning for a drafted storyboard they recently completed for a short film project. They walk through the scene, which involves an action sequence with a car chase for a magical gem that was stolen in a heist. Despite challenges such as time constraints and varying skill levels, their dedication and teamwork shine through, highlighting the hands-on learning and comprehensive skill development facilitated by the program. 

"It’s kind of about making friends for me," Mateo said. "You’re in the same class with them (the students) three hours a day, every day of the week." And he emphasizes this camaraderie isn't just about shared interests. It’s also about shared goals and collaborative effort, stating: "If you don’t do your part, you will never get the car done."

 

Ezekiel Madriz from Andrew Hill High School in East Side Union High School District shares Mateo's sentiments, highlighting the joy of learning alongside his peers and the practical skills gained in the process.

 

"I think it’s exceeded my expectations because it’s helped me learn a lot about cars," Ezekiel said. 

 

From sanding to polishing, the program’s curriculum goes beyond the basics, preparing students for real-world scenarios or even pursuing a career in the automotive industry.

 

For Jesus Perez from Evergreen High School in East Side Union High School District, the allure of the class lies in its potential to empower students with valuable skills and cost-saving knowledge. 

 

"I think it will come in handy because it will save you a lot of money," Jesus explains. From prepping for paint to executing flawless finishes, students are equipped with the know-how to confidently tackle projects. 

 

Misael Cardenas Guzman's journey into auto body refinishing is rooted in a lifelong fascination with cars and a desire to master the craft.

 

"Ever since I was a little kid I was with him (my uncle) and he was working on cars," Misael reflects. He is from Overfelt High School in East Side Union High School District. 

 

This hands-on experience, combined with the guidance of skilled teacher Nathan Chukes, propels students like Misael toward their goals of transforming rusty vehicles into showroom-worthy masterpieces.

Students enrolled in SVCTE’s Construction Technology program are actively building the groundwork for both their educational journey and future careers. Under the guidance of teacher Evan Clark, students have access to an array of power tools, such as jigsaws, chop saws, and drills, to work on projects like constructing steel structures.

Mya Marquez from Gunderson High School in San Jose Unified School District, alongside her peers Charity Livengood from Independance High School in East Side Union High School District and Victoria Lugo from Wilson High School in Santa Clara Unified School District, attests to the multifaceted learning experience offered by the course. Beyond mastering technical skills, students also develop crucial soft skills essential for lifelong success. 

 

“Working in a cohesive team has been a huge one for me because I can’t be putting up walls myself or building them so it’s depending on others,” Mya said. 

 

Her decision to join SVCTE stemmed from a desire to pursue practical, hands-on learning rather than traditional lecture-based education. As someone who enjoys art and working with her hands, the class has lent itself to the perfect blend of learning for Mya. 

 

“I feel like these opportunities are tailored to me where I can take them and apply them to my own life,” she said. 

 

Participation in this year’s SkillsUSA Regional Competition in January further enriched Mya's learning experience by engaging in a shed-building competition within strict four-hour time constraints, even though she wasn’t able to complete it in time. Despite not yet covering certain topics in class, Mr. Clark said Mya's commendable performance underscores the practical skills acquired through real-world experiences in the program. 

 

“This is a really great opportunity to work with your hands if you don’t want to be sitting down,” she said. “If it’s an interest of yours and it’s relevant to you, it can honestly accelerate your career.” 

Jaden’s journey is a testament of the success of the program's hands-on approach. 

 

Guided by teacher Danielle Clark, the program fosters diverse experiences, including those of twins and students with hearing impairments. Mrs. Clark's teaching style navigates students through challenges, imparting not just cooking skills but also practical expertise for real-life scenarios. 

 

“I really appreciate Mrs. Clark and how she handles everything,” Jaden said. “She’s very strict, as you need to be when you’re in a kitchen and picking up knives and that kind of stuff, but she’s also really sweet and takes time to teach us everything.”

 

From customer interactions to food safety and allergen management, the program molds individuals into well-rounded culinary professionals, ensuring they thrive in every aspect. In our Culinary Arts program, diversity is not just embraced; it's celebrated, creating an environment where every student can savor success.

SVCTE’s Electrical Maintenance program sparks illumination in students' minds, igniting pathways to success.

 

Isaac Castanon from Yerba Buena High School in East Side Union High School District is a testament to the program's dynamic approach, highlighting the transformative experience of transitioning from traditional classroom settings. He underscores the program's emphasis on adaptability and problem-solving, instilling vital traits such as critical thinking and effective communication. Isaac's exposure to power tools and other equipment enforces the practical learning that is happening, where students engage in real-world scenarios similar to those encountered in professional settings.

Nathaniel Orrantia from Evergreen High School in East Side Union High School District shared the allure of a career path guided by passion and familial influence, with his uncle being a project manager at Pacific Gas & Electric. As he delves into the intricacies of electrical work, Nathaniel finds solace in the nature of manual labor.

 

“When thinking about my future, I always wanted to do work hands on. I’m not really a behind the desk person,” he said. 

 

Additionally, SVCTE is dedicated to imparting not only technical expertise but also industry-recognized certifications like the OSHA 10 construction safety certification, which Nathaniel has received, serving as invaluable assets in the competitive job market. 

 

Francisco Saldana from Branham High School in Campbell Union High School District said his initial intrigue happened during a middle school field trip and he is now in his second year in the program. Francisco is enthusiastic about the new skills he has acquired in class, evidenced by his mastery of tools like wire strippers, and believes this is essential for success in the field. He has also been exposed to diverse projects, from installing switches to deciphering intricate wiring configurations, tackling multifaceted challenges with confidence and competence.

 

He is excited about everything he has learned at SVCTE, and is looking forward to the opportunities it will undoubtedly bring to his future.

 

“This a job that is never going to go out of date,” Francisco said. “Electricians are always going to be needed. It’s futureproof.”

During a recent class session, one group of students was diligently crafting a dashboard for the Switch electric vehicle while another team focused on developing a control box essential for the vehicle's “brain.” Nearby, students were engaging with e-learning modules from Toyota and Hyundai, expanding their understanding of automotive technology.

 

Mason Price from Westmont High School in Campbell Union High School District described the meticulous yet rewarding work involved in assembling the dashboard. He highlights the importance of understanding electric circuits and their connection to the vehicle's power source. Mason also appreciates the well-rounded assignments provided by teacher Tom Nemeth, which deepens his understanding of electric vehicles and California's ambitious goals for electric vehicle adoption by 2035.

 

Kulwant "KB" Bansel from Oak Grove High School in East Side Union High School District, an advanced student in the class, underscores the critical role of the control box in an electric vehicle, emphasizing safety measures and the significance of electrical components. He sees this knowledge as invaluable for future career prospects.

 

“I really enjoy the course and, on top of that, this generation, a lot of the cars are starting to become electric and this could better help the automotive field,” KB said. He hopes to start his own performance shop one day. 

 

Allyson Meek Pierce from Pioneer High School in San Jose Unified School District reflects on her journey into the automotive world, driven by a lifelong passion with her family. She celebrates the inclusion of women in the automotive industry and embraces the opportunity to learn about electric vehicle technology, recognizing its growing importance in the future of transportation.

 

“Previously most of my automotive knowledge was with gas cars and finishing, but in this class we’ve learned a lot more about how the actual electrical circuits of a car work and how the batteries work which is something that I never knew but it’s so interesting once you learn,” Allyson said. ““It’s a really fun class and I encourage anybody who’s looking to get into cars in the future to take it.”

SVCTE’s Fashion Design and Textile Art program is stitching together student passions in a vibrant tapestry of creativity and skill. 

 

Mario Aguilar’s journey is an example of the power of the program. He is from Opportunity Youth Academy in Santa Clara County Office of Education. From cutting fabric patterns to gaining graphic design skills and illustration confidence that wasn’t previously there, he has embraced every aspect with enthusiasm and determination. Reflecting on his initial curiosity, Mario confesses: "To be honest, I didn’t really know much. I just liked clothes... and it (this class) hasn’t disappointed me."

 

Beyond technical proficiency, the program also cultivates a mindset of ambition. Mario reflects on the soft skills he has also acquired being a part of the program, sharing: "I’m also learning a lot from being a self-advocate and going after it.”

 

Individual expression is also a common thread woven into the fabric of the program. 

 

For Isabella Faines from Piedmont High School in East Side Union High School District, her introduction to the Renaissance era of historical fashion in an English class sparked a passion that led her to SVCTE. Isabella appreciates how the program challenges her.

 

"I like that it pushes me out of my comfort zone," she said. “I used to be more introverted but this class really helped me get to know my classmates and focus on teamwork. We’re constantly working with other people and sharing space.”

 

Stephanie Bernal's success in a pin design category competition during SkillsUSA’s regionals highlights the program's emphasis on practical application and professional development. She earned first place in that category and will be going on to the state competition April 4 to 7 in Ontario, Calif. Stephanie is from Wilcox High School in Santa Clara Unified School District.

 

Stephanie's victory also amplifies the program's ability to nurture talent and provide real-world opportunities. With a background in fashion, Stephanie found her calling in SVCTE's welcoming atmosphere.

 

"This class is really great,” Stephanie said. “It has given me great opportunities.”

Unearthing the truth isn't just a cliché catchphrase in SVCTE's Forensic Science program; it's a daily activity. As students sift through textbooks and scrutinize technical applications, they’re also scouring for clues like modern-day detectives. 

 

Sarah Sun from Leland High School in San Jose Unified School District and Yahira Nunez from James Lick High School in East Side Union High School District were recently wielding metal detectors, and unearthed an animal skull just outside their classroom. They continued searching the area for other animal remains.

With a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on exploration, students have the freedom to take control of their learning journey, gaining valuable experiences that transcend a traditional education.

 

“Even though it’s textbook heavy, yeah you have to know a lot of the technical applications, to a certain point the textbook can’t teach you everything,” Sarah said. “There are definitely a lot more hands-on resources so you really get to touch and feel and apply yourself to everything you’re being taught.”

 

Students are surrounded by professional-grade equipment, including crime scene kits, laboratory tools, forensic photography devices, and more. 

 

“I like that I can take on leadership roles and it gives me the opportunity to do things that my normal school wouldn’t let me, like having access to a lab or to crime scene areas,” said Audrey Ton from Evergreen High School in East Side Union High School District. 

 

Students like Audrey and Jasmine Knight from Westmont High School in Campbell Union High School District were drawn to this specialized program by an innate curiosity for solving crimes. 

 

“Techniques I’ve taken away are decontamination and the preservation of evidence,” Jasmine said. “In the real world if I had to do this and if I didn’t do a certain step it might contaminate evidence and send the wrong person to jail. The program ingrains a sense of discipline you don’t get in a traditional classroom.”

For Brandon Andrade from Calero High School in East Side Union High School District, the allure of HVAC stems from familial influence, with his uncle working in HVAC.

 

“Sometimes I go with him in the field,” Brandon said. “It’s just something that’s very interesting.” 

 

In the class, Brandon emphasizes the importance of techniques like brazing, a process he finds both challenging and rewarding. Understanding the intricacies of brazing ensures that systems are properly sealed, preventing leaks that could compromise functionality. Brandon also enjoys working on package units, which he finds more challenging, but allows him to broaden his knowledge.

 

“In school you’re usually working on topics you don’t want to learn about but here you’re always wanting to learn and it’s just a great place for a lot of students,” Brandon said. 

 

Similarly, Teman Craig Sorum’s family background in HVAC fuels his passion for the subject. He attends Santa Teresa High School in East Side Union High School District. Teiman appreciates the collaborative environment of the class, where students bond over shared interests and work together on projects rather than traditional assignments. While Teiman enjoys brazing, he finds electrical work more challenging, yet still acknowledges its importance in the field. Through hands-on activities like wiring and system assembly, Teiman gains practical skills essential for a career in HVAC.

 

For Liam Geddes from Pioneer High School in San Jose Unified School District, the curriculum resonates with him, providing a learning experience that keeps him engaged. From studying furnace functions to building AC systems from scratch, Liam appreciates the practical approach to learning. His preference for hands-on activities like brazing reflects a broader sentiment among students, who find enjoyment and fulfillment in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

 

Liam is one of many students who credits the HVAC program for helping him seek clarity about his future. 

 

“I wanted to know what I wanted to do for a career,” Liam said. “I had an idea but I this (program) helped a lot.”

Porfirio highlighted the program’s practical nature, emphasizing that it goes beyond the traditional high school experience. Through hands-on activities and simulations, students gain valuable insight into law enforcement, including strategies for managing crowd control and de-escalating tense situations, as demonstrated in a recent exercise simulating a post-Super Bowl protest.

 

Jerry Solano from Gunderson High School in San Jose Unified School District, shared his reasons for joining the program, also citing a desire to break away from the monotony of traditional high school education and explore something new. He expressed his preference for hands-on learning, indicating that the program's focus on practical skills resonated with him.

 

Despite differing opinions on certain aspects of the program, both Porfirio and Jerry acknowledged its value in providing real-world experiences and preparing them for future careers in law enforcement. Jerry mentioned that he has learned many aspects through the coursework, including time management. 

 

The program offers an alternative learning environment for students like Jerry, who may thrive better in hands-on settings rather than traditional classroom setups. While academic subjects may not be his forte, he appreciates the opportunity to engage in practical, real-world learning experiences that align with his interests.

 

The program allows students to engage with law enforcement techniques and scenarios firsthand. By simulating real-life situations, students gain valuable skills in communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. These experiences not only enhance their understanding of law enforcement practices but also equip them with practical skills that can be applied in future careers.

In SVCTE’s Mechatronics Engineering program, students aren't just hitting the books; they're hitting the bolts, embarking on an electrifying journey. The programs offer students a dynamic learning environment to explore their interests, collaborate on innovative projects, and develop practical skills essential for future careers in technology and engineering.

Duncan Adamson from Gunderson High School in San Jose Unified School District exemplifies the transformative power of hands-on learning, from novice to proficient builder, driven by a desire to create "stupid robots" and foster collaboration within the vibrant Mechatronics class.

 

Kevin Wong from Piedmont Hills High School in East Side Union High School District has created a fully automated Artificial Intelligence video generator, a testament to the program's capacity to inspire ambitious projects. 

 

Ben Pham from Evergreen High School in East Side Union High School District found in Mechatronics a platform to pursue his passion for hypersonic airspace, surrounded by peers like Kevin, whose proficiency in Python left him in awe, showcasing the collaborative spirit found within the program. 

 

“I heard this was a separate campus where you could pursue specific fields," Ben said. "I heard Mechatronics combines electrical and physical items like servo motors and I thought that was very interesting. They don’t provide that at my school.” 

 

Nicolas Colton from Evergreen High School highlights the practical applications of Mechatronics through CAD design using Fusion 360 software, while Damian Renteria from Independence High School, both in East Side Union High School District, shares that his participation in SkillsUSA competitions demonstrates the real-world relevance of Mechatronics concepts. 

 

“I signed up for Mechatronics because I am interested in being a computer engineer,” Damian said. “I wanted to know a bit more about engineering so I can see what I am going to deal with.” 

 

Tran Nguyen from Overfelt High School in East Side Union High School District has created “Bobby” the robot and his controller in the class. He believes this project reflects the creative freedom the class offers, where students can bring imaginative ideas to life through technical skills learned in the program.

Danielle recently demonstrated how the class offers practical lessons in healthcare, such as monitoring glucose levels to understand the intricacies of pancreatic function. Despite joining the class last minute, she expresses gratitude for stumbling upon the program, crediting her counselor's recommendation and the welcoming environment.

“My biggest thing with everything is building a connection with your teacher, and I feel like me and my teacher have a really good connection,” she said. “Having a good connection like that makes you want to go to class and makes this class really enjoyable.” 

 

Madison's journey into medical science began with a flyer at her home high school followed by a shadow day, where she discovered her passion for suturing and aiding others. 

 

"I just fell in love with the class from that day," she shares, emphasizing the diverse learning experiences and internship opportunities that await students. 

 

From mastering vital signs by taking blood pressure, checking standard compression, and using tools like oximeters and PEERLAs to check eyes, to delving into the complexities of nutrition, the curriculum equips students with a well-rounded understanding of healthcare, and it also helps them uncover their dreams, like that of Nicole's. 

 

"This class has really helped me decide that I want to be a nurse practitioner," she said. 

For Juan, this program serves as a guiding light toward his envisioned future. 

 

“I was always interested in wanting to become a welder,” Juan said. “This program is helping me get to where I want to be in my future.”

 

With access to tools he didn't even know existed, such as bandsaws and shears, Juan is delving into the fascinating realm of metalwork, where the fusion of two metals is a captivating spectacle for him. His work has also opened doors for him, recently culminating in a regional SkillsUSA competition, where he earned fourth place in the Welding category and is moving on to the state conference April 4 to 7 in Ontario, Calif. 

 

“I came with no experience and to even just be able to compete, I am so proud,” he said. 

 

Jasmin's decision to enroll in the program stemmed from a desire to try something new. What she discovered was not only the joy of welding but also the potential for it to evolve into a fulfilling career. In the immersive hands-on environment of the program, Jasmin finds herself engrossed in the process of creation.

 

“I just find it really fun,” she said. “You’re in your zone and you’re starting something and then when you’re done, you’re like, ‘Oh wow, I did this.’” 

 

Oscar's journey into metals technology began as a secondary interest, but soon it became a passion worth pursuing. Beyond being a lucrative hobby, he sees this program as a pathway to a promising future. Oscar values the program's unique approach in providing trade-oriented education, with the chance to master different welding techniques and certifications, especially considering the exorbitant costs associated with obtaining similar certifications outside of school.

 

“It will actually help you find a career you would like to work in and help you get a head start,” he said. “Since I won’t have any prior working experience, this will help.”

Students in SVCTE’s Pharmacy Technician program are concocting more than just formulas—they're blending passion with practicality. 

 

Budding pharmacist Austin Bi from Independence High School in East Side Union High School District was recently transforming aspirin into a capsule, after grinding it up with a pestle and mortar and adding in salt and baking powder. He measured it out to reach the necessary prescribed weight.

For Austin, the journey into the world of pharmacy was sparked by both family and a thirst for exploration. He was seeking knowledge and an opportunity to explore a potential pathway. 

 

"I wanted to step in the medical field and I thought working as a tech would introduce me to that world,” he said. “My cousin was a tech and now she’s a pharmacist and I thought it would be a fun experience."

 

Amidst the array of tools and terminology, the classroom is a laboratory of learning. But it's not just about textbooks and terminology, but also the camaraderie that makes the opportunity so worthwhile.

 

 "Everyone here is very chill. It’s really fun," Austin remarks, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment in fostering growth and enthusiasm.

 

Emerald Nghiem from Silver Creek High School in East Side Union High School District joined the program to go beyond the boundaries of conventional education. 

 

"I decided to join this class because I was up for a challenge and I wanted to step outside my comfort zone," she said, noting the three-hour sessions that are immersive experiences. "I’ve learned a lot about different types of drugs and understanding abbreviations… and then learning about how to write prescriptions.”

 

For Emerald and her peers, the Pharmacy Technician program is about broadening horizons and seizing opportunities beyond the confines of traditional education. 

 

"Before I was really unsure of what to do and I just wanted to explore opportunities," Emerald said, highlighting the power of hands-on learning and exploration within the program.

Jayden Perez from Mount Pleasant High School and Ashjeet Kaur from Independence High school, both in East Side Union High School District, express aspirations to become physical therapists, viewing the program as a stepping stone. This inclusion of college credits provides a head start in higher education, making SVCTE's program not just educational but also career-focused.

 

“This focuses on exactly what you want to do, so it helps you get learning in something you’re going to want to pursue in your life,” said Ashjeet. “That’s something that not everybody gets to experience.” 

 

Students also credited the high-tech equipment for enriching their education. 

 

“I would say our resources are more compelling in the sense that you come here and know it’s like a job,” said Elias Antillon from Branham High School in Campbell Union High School District.

 

The class has two Anatomage tables, which offer an immersive 3D experience for exploring anatomical structures. Student Olivia Wollenweber from Pioneer High School in San Jose Unified School District also praised the tables for making learning interactive and real-world relevant. Melina Leon from Mount Pleasant High School and Jasmine Ahumada from Silver Creek High School, both in the East Side Union High School District, gave a demonstration of how to use them.

 

Additionally, hands-on activities, like ankle and shoulder taping for injuries, underline the program's dedication to practical skills. 

 

“This class definitely has encouraged me to see more of what I would like to do in the future with this profession,” Melina said, sharing her aspirations to go on to a four-year college and study kinesiology.  “I don’t know if I want to be an occupational therapist or a physical therapist, but those are both options that start with having to do this course.”