1. 8th Grade
4 Year Plan

2. In order to graduate high school, you must:
Choose a path
Either University, Career Technical, or Dual
Earn 20 or more credits
Pass Gateway Exams in
English II, Algebra I, and Biology

3. Path Choices University Career Technical Dual
Want to earn a 4 year college degree and possibly go on to higher education
Career Technical
Go directly into the work force after high school or to a two-year technical institute
Dual
Unsure about what to do concerning higher education and want to leave options open

4. Let’s look at some educational messages and statistics…
Technical/vocational classes are for students who can’t achieve academically
RESEARCH AND STATISTICS
Of the new U.S. jobs in this decade, 70% will require technical education beyond high school.
…..U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

5. MESSAGE… If you have a four year degree, you will be successful.
RESEARCH AND STATISTICS…
50% of all students who prepare for a professional job – bachelor’s degree – will end up underemployed.
…..Shelly, 1992

6. MESSAGE… The 4 year degree is the only degree worth having.
RESEARCH AND STATISTICS
Through 2010, 20% of jobs will require a Bachelor’s Degree and 60% will require an Associate Degree.
…..U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

7. On the other hand…
A college graduate will earn 50% more over a lifetime than a high school graduate. According to statistics, that would be at least $525,000 over a lifetime.

8. So how can you select the educational path most appropriate for you?
Consider these questions…
Are you academically motivated in core subjects such as, English, math, science, social studies and reading? OR
Are you more motivated toward direct, hands-on, experienced study?

9. REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS
Subject Credits
Language Arts 4
Math 3
Science 3
Social Studies 3
Wellness 1

10. What are the differences?
Technical path students must take:
Subject Credits
specified
technical
classes
University path students must take:
Subject Credits
Fine Art
Foreign Language 2

11. What are the differences in the core classes?
University Path
Math
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
Science
Biology
Chemistry
Technical Path
Math
Algebra I
Technical Geometry
Science
Biology

12. Let’s look at the technical programs offered:
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
Animal science, farming, landscaping, greenhouse management, forestry, and wildlife management and recreation

13. TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL EDUCATION
Cosmetology and Manicuring
Students may leave this course of study with eligibility to take the TN Board of Cosmetology and Manicuring exam.

14. TRANSPORTATION Small engine repair Automobile maintenance
Collision repair

15. CONSTRUCTION Construction drawing Site layout Hand and power tools
Building materials
Framing
Exterior work
Intro to welding

16. MANUFACTURING Engineering Quality principals Industrial maintenance
Automation
machining

17. DRAFTING Engineering Computer-aided design
Construction and assembly drawings

18. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Computer repair
Maintenance
Programming
Troubleshooting
Replacing, installing, upgrading computers

19. HEALTH SCIENCE EDUCATION
Health related professions such as dental, dietetics, medical assistances, home health, nursing, pharmacy, respiratory, social work, physical therapy, forensic science

20. FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE
Culinary Arts
May also include:
Home economics
Family and parenting
Adult living
Child development and care
Communication
Housing and interior design

21. BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY Accounting Spreadsheets Creating web pages
Administrative mgmt.
Problem solving
Team building
Time management
communications

22. MARKETING EDUCATION Retail operations Entrepreneurship
Human resource leadership development
economics

23. REMEMBER…
You may take any class that is offered regardless of your path choice.
Open communication with your parents, teachers and school counselors will help assure proper scheduling choices.

24. Check out this website for links to other helpful sites on the web.
Check out this website for links to other helpful sites on the web.

25. Frequently asked questions:
Do I have to take all the classes that are listed on my 4-year plan?
Can I change my educational path?
How do I go about choosing electives?
How is the registration process conducted each year?

26. REMEMBER…
Involving your parents, teachers, and counselors in your educational process is one of the best ways to ensure your future success.