Santee School District Launches Career Technical Education Program

SANTEE, CA — Santee School District has received a $215,000 grant to launch a new Career Technical Education program for seventh and eighth graders, giving students early exposure to high-demand career fields.

The program blends academic learning with hands-on, real-world skills, aiming to prepare students for college and the workforce while developing communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills.

Mr. Dan Prouty, who has served in various leadership roles throughout the district, was named manager of the program.

"Career Technical Education opens doors for students to discover their interests and begin building real-world skills at an early age," Prouty said. "We're excited to bring these hands-on, engaging opportunities to Santee students and help connect their learning today to the careers of tomorrow."

Programs were selected to align with county-identified labor shortages, giving students opportunities to explore potential careers while expanding elective options.

The first 12-week elective, Digital Media, will launch in fall 2026, developed in collaboration with teachers from the Grossmont Union High School District. Future electives in Health Science (Sports Medicine) and Information and Communication Technologies will be added in the 2027-28 school year, creating a full-year elective rotation for seventh- and eighth-grade students at all K-8 schools.