School as part of its annual instructional review. While on site the team observed how CCHS continues to offer some of the best CTE programs in the state of Colorado. From modern machine and welding shops to a growing building trades curriculum to a nationally recognized CAD program, to a world-class automotive education experience, to an extremely engaging technology recycling program, to outstanding business technology curriculum, and the most amazing student intern and apprentice opportunities in Colorado.
The team also took a deep dive into work accomplished to establish a career pathways program, including the expansion of course offerings, alignment of graduation requirements, and development of a capstone program to go along with it all.
The team observed a continued emphasis on visual and performing arts. From outstanding instrumental and voice programs to drama and visual arts opportunities, and even to applications of all these in STEM fields through video productions and graphic arts design classes.
The team also observed the school's focus on restorative behavior practices, an inclusive attitude among staff and students, and the implementation of outstanding social-emotional supports.
Finally, the team noticed the expert implementation of one-to-one Chromebook devices. I'm not sure any high school has ever been more thoughtful about the way this has been done!
Alex Carter from the Colorado Education Initiative joined in on our visit and was amazed at how much is being accomplished through Cañon City High School's recent transformation process. Mr. Carter made plans to share concepts he observed in our award-winning Tiger Open Pathways program. He also said he thinks Cañon City High School should be a destination visit for CEI's High School Retool program, aimed at showing what is possible when a high school staff works to transform their instructional programs to better prepare students for the future.