High school is a time for students to explore their interests and prepare for their future. For students at Southern Aroostook High School, this preparation extends beyond the traditional classroom through a unique partnership with the Region Two Applied Technology Center in Houlton. This collaboration provides students with invaluable career and technical education (CTE) opportunities, offering hands-on training and real-world skills that prepare them for both college and the workforce. Southern Aroostook High School currently has over 50 students enrolled in a CTE program at Region Two for the 2025-26 school year.
What is Career and Technical Education?
CTE is an educational model that combines academic learning with practical, hands-on training in specific career fields. It's a modern approach that goes far beyond the "vocational school" of the past. Today's CTE programs use cutting-edge equipment and are taught by industry professionals, giving students a head start on high-demand, high-wage careers. Unlike a traditional high school where you only learn the theory, a CTE program allows you to "learn by doing," making the educational experience more engaging and relevant.
The benefits of CTE are numerous, including:
Skill Development: Students gain tangible skills that are directly applicable to a chosen career.
College and Career Readiness: CTE programs can lead to professional certifications and even college credits, making the transition to higher education or a professional career more seamless.
Increased Engagement: The hands-on, project-based nature of CTE often leads to higher student motivation, attendance, and graduation rates.
Higher Earnings: Studies show that students who participate in upper-level CTE coursework can have higher earnings after graduation.
A Glimpse into the Programs
Southern Aroostook High School students can attend Region Two, where they are able to select from a diverse array of programs that align with various career clusters. These programs provide specialized training and skills in fields ranging from public safety to the skilled trades.
Some of the programs available at Region Two include:
Auto Collision & Auto Technology: Students learn to repair, maintain, and restore vehicles, from engine diagnostics to bodywork and painting.
Carpentry: A comprehensive program covering everything from basic framing and finish carpentry.
Criminal Justice: Students get a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement, learning about the justice system and community safety.
Culinary Arts: This program blends foundational kitchen knowledge with hands-on experience, teaching students a variety of cooking techniques and diverse cuisines.
Health Science, Nursing & Phlebotomy: These programs offer a pathway into the healthcare field, allowing students to earn valuable certifications, such as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), while still in high school.
Residential Electrical, Plumbing & Heating: Students learn the essential skills needed for these in-demand trades, gaining practical knowledge in installing and maintaining electrical, plumbing, and heating systems.
Welding & Metal Fabrication: This program teaches students how to shape and join metal, preparing them for careers in construction, manufacturing, and more.
In addition to these specialized programs, Region Two also offers a Career Academy for freshmen and sophomores who want to explore different career paths before committing to a specific program. There is also a Co-Op program, which allows students to gain on-the-job experience with professional mentors.
How It Works
Students at Southern Aroostook High School can attend the Region Two Applied Technology Center while still participating in their high school's academic courses and extracurricular activities. The schedule is designed to allow students to get the best of both worlds—a traditional high school experience and a specialized, career-focused education. The Region Two Applied Technology Center provides transportation, making it easy for students to take advantage of these opportunities.
By offering these robust CTE programs, Southern Aroostook High School and the Region Two Applied Technology Center are helping students build the skills, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.