Nine public school districts in Maricopa and Pinal counties, representing nearly 24,000 high school students, are highlighting the growing success of their on-campus Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
These satellite CTE programs, including those in the three Gilbert-area school districts, give students direct access to real-world career training without leaving their high school campuses. The programs blend classroom learning with hands-on experience, allowing students to earn industry certifications and practical skills before graduation.
Through the satellite model, high-quality CTE courses are offered at students’ home schools, removing transportation and scheduling barriers while keeping students connected to their campuses. The programs are aligned with Arizona’s workforce needs and taught by industry professionals using professional-grade tools and curriculum.
The nine districts — Queen Creek, Chandler, Gilbert, Higley, Cave Creek, Apache Junction, Fountain Hills, J.O. Combs, and Tempe Union — currently offer more than 100 CTE programs, with 15 taught exclusively on high school campuses. Nearly every program earned either a Distinguished or Proficient rating from the Arizona Department of Education in 2023-24, the state’s highest marks.
Students in these programs graduate at significantly higher rates than district and state averages. In 2024-25 alone, students across the nine districts earned over 5,000 industry-recognized certifications while still in high school, giving them a competitive edge in the workforce.
Students regularly share how CTE courses shape their futures. Rylee, a cabinetmaking student in Chandler Unified, said woodshop taught them perseverance and dedication. Amanda, a digital photography student in Gilbert, said CTE helped her find her passion and understand what skills are needed in the industry. Eva, a Higley graduate, credited her criminal justice program for preparing her to pursue a career with the FBI.
In addition to the 24,000 satellite program students, about 3,500 students attend courses at the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) campuses in Mesa. Discussions between EVIT and the nine districts are underway to secure long-term funding and support for the programs.
“Now more than ever, protecting satellite CTE programs means protecting Arizona’s future workforce,” the districts said in a joint statement. “All students deserve access to relevant, hands-on career training without sacrificing their electives, enduring long commutes, or losing connection to their school communities.”
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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