For more than 25 years, Narragansett High School has offered Agricultural Science classes to its high school students. So when the Rhode Island Department of Education offered schools the opportunity to expand upon traditional teaching and add Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, it was a natural fit for the Mariners. CTE offers a wide variety of educational opportunities and hands-on experience while helping prepare students for careers and college.
It was only fitting that Narragansett launched CTE with a program the Mariners were very familiar with – Agriculture Science. In addition to a wide range of focused curriculum and training, students have hosted the Mariner Marketplace, where they grow and sell plants and other farm fresh offerings. Students also care for the school’s hens, sell fresh eggs and work in the Sugar Shack, where they tap maple trees and make fresh maple syrup to sell. Many classes are held in Narragansett’s state-of-the-art greenhouse from Holland.
Narragansett’s CTE program quickly expanded, adding programs such as Information and Computer Technology and Mechanical Trades. Students who enroll in Information and Computer Technology are taught coding and video game development. Mechanical Trades-Plumbing provides students hands-on training and apprenticeship opportunities along with partner, Rhode Island’s Local 51.
CISCO, the worldwide IT and networking leader, has partnered with Narragansett and created a hands-on networking curriculum for the NHS CTE students.
Narragansett is unique as students enrolled in the CTE program remain full-time members of the high school. Students also have the opportunity to access advanced placement and additional college credit classes while still earning certificates in career-ready fields.
