Discover, Explore and Create This Summer with CTE Summer Discovery!

Middle school students in MMSD have an exciting opportunity to dive into hands-on learning this summer with the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Discovery Program. This free program is designed for rising 6th to 8th graders and offers immersive experiences across a variety of career pathways, from business and healthcare to skilled trades and engineering.

CTE plays a vital role in MMSD’s commitment to preparing students for the future, with courses that go beyond textbooks to provide practical, real-world skills that can spark new interests and even lead to future careers. “Students engage in these courses for a variety of reasons,” said Mitchell Staroscik, MMSD’s director of personalized pathways and CTE. “Some take them for fun, some to explore potential career paths, and some know exactly what they want to do professionally and are looking for a head start.”

The CTE Summer Discovery Program is a perfect introduction to these experiences, featuring courses led by licensed CTE educators. Students will connect with industry partners, build hands-on projects, and explore exciting career fields—all while having fun.

This year’s program includes a variety of sessions across different career pathways, including:

• Auto and Transportation, East High School, July 7–10 and 14–17 
• Business and Entrepreneurship, East High School, July 21–24
• Coding and Robotics, Vel Phillips Memorial High School, July 7–10 and 14–17
• Culinary, La Follette High School, July 7–10 and 14–17
• Engineering Design
  • West High School, July 7–10 and 14–17
  • La Follette High School, July 21–24
• Health Science Exploration
  • La Follette High School, July 14–17
  • Vel Phillips Memorial High School, July 7–10 and 14–17
• Introduction to Computer Science, La Follette High School, July 7–10
• Skilled Trade: Career Exploration, La Follette High School, July 14–17
• Skilled Trade: Carpentry, Vel Phillips Memorial High School, July 7–10
• Skilled Trade: Electrical, Vel Phillips Memorial High School, July 14–17
• Skilled Trade: Plumbing, Vel Phillips Memorial High School, July 21–24
• Video Production, East High School, July 7–10, 14–17, and 21–24

“We built circuits, made charger outlets—it was all hands-on,” said Isaiah B., a current 8th-grader who participated in last year’s program. “If you’re someone who learns best by actually doing things instead of just listening to a lecture, this program is a great opportunity.”

Students who participate in CTE programs are more likely to engage in related coursework in high school and beyond. MMSD data shows that 95% of students who concentrate in CTE courses graduate on time, demonstrating the curriculum’s strong impact on student success.

"I wasn’t sure what to expect—my mom signed me up—but it ended up being really fun,” said Ian P., another 8th grader who took part last summer. “Woodworking was my favorite because I got to build a bench and take it home, and we even got free food!"

Registration for CTE Summer Discovery is now open, and spaces are limited. MMSD also provides free summer bus passes to ensure all students can access these incredible opportunities. Don’t miss out on a summer of creativity, discovery, and experiential learning! Visit the CTE Summer Discovery webpage for more information and to register.