Two Construction Technologies students at REC in Troy begin a project.
The end of the school year is filled with culminating activities such as final exams and capstone projects. For Career & Technical Education (CTE) students, these items are part of a process which can earn them a technical endorsement on their high school diplomas.
Technical assessments are not just another final exam though. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) requires an approved technical assessment to include three parts – a written test, a practical test, and a professional portfolio or final project.
This process measures a student’s content knowledge and ability in their chosen field. The written test shows mastery of theory or content while the practical test demonstrates skill and ability. The professional portfolio highlights the student’s work throughout their CTE program.
Passing all three parts of the technical assessment is only one of the requirements for a student to earn a technical endorsement on their diploma. In addition to completing a state-approved CTE program, they must also participate in work-based learning experiences, earn 22 high school credits and pass at least five Regents exams. The technical endorsement is an enhancement on a student’s diploma to recognize this additional achievement.
Earning a technical endorsement allows CTE students to get a head start when it comes to pursuing higher education or getting a job.
“It says they have passed an industry-level competency exam to work in that field, so they have more experience and knowledge,” says Karyn Watt, an integrated academic teacher who oversees Questar III’s CTE program approval with the state.
A state-approved technical assessment is also one of the requirements for CTE program approval by NYSED. Program approval means a program offers rigorous preparation for employment and postsecondary studies. This includes industry recognized credentials and opportunities to earn college credit.
