Career and Technical Education
At Orenda Charter School, we believe every student has a future worth preparing for — and no two paths look exactly alike. Our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs give students real-world experience, industry-aligned coursework, and hands-on training that connect classroom learning to the careers of tomorrow. Whether a student dreams of a skilled trade, a healthcare career, a business venture, or a four-year degree, our CTE pathways help them build the skills, confidence, and credentials to get there.
From work-based learning opportunities to dual credit courses that earn college credit while still in high school, Orenda students graduate ready — ready for the workforce, ready for college, and ready to thrive in a fast-changing world.
MISSION
Orenda Charter School prepares students to discover their unique talents and pursue college, career, and technical pathways that are the best fit for their future, through rigorous academics, real-world learning, and industry-aligned experiences, while fostering belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity.
VISION
Our vision is to graduate learners who are confident, skilled, and prepared to thrive in college, career, and life, with industry-relevant skills, strong character, and the readiness to succeed in an interconnected world.
CTE Programs of Study
Orenda Charter School offers several CTE pathways with a coherent sequence of three or more courses. Students may enroll in individual CTE courses for elective credit or may pursue one of the approved Programs of Study below.
Work-Based Learning
WorkâBased Learning (WBL) combines the traditional classroom setting with a workplace environment that provides students with opportunities to work in a chosen career path while earning credit toward high school graduation. Students earn credit through the number of contact hours spent in the classroom and on the training site.
There are two types of WBL experiences, paid and unpaid. Students enrolled in Career Preparation may participate in paid and unpaid experiences.
Classroom teachers collaborate with students to determine the best possible training placements, provide classroom related instruction, and consult with training supervisors regarding student progress. Experienced training supervisors provide instruction on specific job skills, technical requirements and evaluate student performance, which becomes part of the student’s grade for the course. More information on Work-Based Learning can be found in the Orenda Work Based Learning Handbook.
Dual Credit Workforce Courses and Post-Secondary Credentials
High school students have the opportunity to take CTE courses for college credit through Orenda’s dual credit partnerships with Austin Community College and Central Texas College. Students can take dual credit workforce courses towards earning an Occupational Skills Award (OSA), Level 1 and 2 Certificates, and Associate’s Degree.
2026-27 Approved Austin Community College Dual Credit Courses
2026-27 Approved Central Texas College Dual Credit Courses
Orenda Associate’s Degree Plans
Statement of CTE Non-Discrimination
Orenda Charter School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in its programs or activities. Orenda Charter School provides a free, appropriate education consisting of regular or special education and related aids and services in Career and Technical Education Programs that are designed to meet individual educational needs of disabled persons as adequately as the needs of non-disabled persons. Orenda Charter School will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.