By ARABELLA SERRATA
Staff Writer
Port Isabel Early College High School (PIECHS) recently hosted a work-based architecture and construction summer camp, organized by the College and Career Readiness department. This camp is part of the school’s initiative to equip students with skills in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways offered by PIECHS.
The camp was funded by Region One’s Perkins Innovation Modernization (PIM) grant and operated under the direction of Mr. Romeo Ruelas, in collaboration with the PIECHS maintenance department. It provided students with hands-on training and experience through real-world projects, interactive workshops, construction site visits, career mentorship and guidance from industry professionals.
CTE at PIECHS aims to help students develop skills in specific programs of study throughout their four years of high school. The skills learned culminate in certifications that enhance their qualifications for post-graduation employment. The school offers nine programs of study and over 20 certifications across various industries.
The CTE program covers a broad range of career paths, including college, career, and military readiness.
College readiness focuses on testing that enables students to take dual-enrollment classes and earn an associate degree. Career readiness equips students with the tools to pursue fulfilling careers immediately after high school, allowing them to learn trades and earn certifications. Military readiness provides students the opportunity to explore military service, with the ASVAB exam available to help identify their strengths and suitable skills.
Dr. Juan J. Mendoza, the director of the College and Career Readiness program, said, “Through our CTE initiatives, we actively engage parents and the community, offering academic programs designed to prepare students for success in college, career, and the workforce….Additionally, work-based field experiences, internships, and externship initiatives, designed to align closely with industry needs, remain a cornerstone of our College & Career Readiness Department at Point Isabel ISD.”
Students who earn certifications are recognized with a cord at graduation, signifying a valuable addition to their resumes, according to PIECHS officials. Dr. Mendoza can be contacted at (956) 943-0008. Additional information about the school’s CTE programs is available on their website, pi-isd.net.
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