February was an exciting and inspiring month at South Seminole Academy as students and teachers came together to celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. With weekly themes, hands-on learning opportunities, engaging lunchtime showcases, and special features from SSA News, the entire school embraced what it means to learn by doing while exploring real-world career pathways.

Weekly Themes Spotlighted Each CTE Pathway

Every week in February focused on a different pathway, giving students and teachers the chance to go deeper into specialized industries.

Week 1: CTE Awareness

The month began with CTE Awareness Week, where students were introduced to the many pathways available at SSA. Through short “What Is CTE?” segments, quick-look classroom clips, and student-reported features, the SSN News team highlighted the purpose and power of CTE programs. Students gained insight into how hands-on learning helps build essential skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and industry‑recognized certifications.

SSN News continued this CTE focus all month long through the lens of famous African Americans and the positive impact CTE has had on the world.

          

Week 2: Technology Pathway

The tech-focused week highlighted coding, engineering, website design, and emerging technology.  Students also showcased in‑progress projects, offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at their creative and technical work.

          

Week 3: Service Pathway

Education, hospitality, legal studies, and community‑based careers took center stage. Highlights included:

• Mock trial activities
• Student projects focused on tourism activities available in the area for Spring Break
• Black leaders in service careers
• Daycare expos by our Intro to Education students

          

Week 4: Business & Creation Pathway

The final week featured student entrepreneurs and makers. Students presented:

• Marketing campaigns
• Student-designed products
• Hands-on media and design projects

          

Lunchtime CTE Showcases Brought Learning to Life

Each week, students had the opportunity to showcase what they’ve learned during lunch, turning the courtyard into a hub of innovation. Fellow students and teachers could walk through hands-on demonstrations, view student-created products, and speak directly to learners about their projects.

During Lunch, students shared:

• Technology projects such as iPad tech demos and web designs
• Service projects such as tourism booths

These lunchtime exhibitions allowed students to practice public speaking, collaboration, and presentation skills—all essential components of their CTE experience.

CTE Students of the Week

Each pathway honored outstanding learners through CTE Student of the Week recognitions. These students demonstrated leadership, creativity, determination, and pathway‑specific skill mastery. 

Congratulations to the following students: 

• Ilyass Sajid
• Jordynn Watson
• Evalyn Perdomo
• Viva Maria Mandel
• Brooklyne Rodriguez
• Francisco Ramos
• Lauren Roska

A Month to Remember

CTE Month at South Seminole Academy highlighted everything that makes our school community extraordinary—creativity, curiosity, collaboration, problem‑solving, and student empowerment. From SSA News features to dynamic lunchtime showcases and pathway celebrations, February was a powerful reminder that CTE helps students discover their passions and build the skills they need for the future.