Overview of Kansas CTE Internship Programs in High Schools
The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) oversees Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in high schools, which emphasize practical, career-focused learning aligned with 16 career clusters and 37 pathways. These programs integrate academic skills with hands-on training to prepare students for postsecondary education, certifications, or direct workforce entry. Internship opportunities fall under “work-based learning” (WBL), a required component of approved CTE pathways. WBL includes supervised experiences like job shadowing, mentorships, and paid/unpaid internships, often culminating in junior or senior years.
The Architecture and Construction career cluster (CIP Code: 46.0000) focuses on designing, planning, managing, and building the built environment. It includes one main pathway: Construction and Design, divided into two strands:
- Design Strand: Emphasizes architectural drafting, interior design, and preconstruction planning.
- Construction Strand: Targets hands-on building trades like carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems (this aligns with the user’s focus on the “Construction Pathway”).
To qualify as a pathway “completer” (earning a CTE endorsement on the high school transcript), students must:
- Complete at least 3 secondary-level credits in the pathway (at least 2 from technical/application levels).
- Earn an industry-recognized credential (e.g., NCCER certification for construction trades) or complete a high-quality WBL experience (e.g., internship).
- Pathways must include at least one WBL element for KSDE approval.
Internships are typically coordinated by local school districts, often through partnerships with employers, technical colleges, or programs like SkillsUSA. They provide real-world application of skills, resume-building, and potential pathways to apprenticeships or employment. Funding for technical/application courses (including WBL) includes 0.5 state weighted funding per credit.
Key Internship Program: Workplace Experience in Architecture and Construction
The primary KSDE-approved internship mechanism is through dedicated WBL courses in the Construction and Design pathway. These are offered statewide in approved high school programs and count toward pathway completion.
| Course Name | Credits | Level | Description | Eligibility/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Workplace Experience in Architecture and Construction (Course #38100) | 0.5 | Application | Supervised part-time work (e.g., 10-15 hours/week) at a construction site or firm. Students apply classroom skills in areas like site preparation, material handling, or basic trades under mentor supervision. Includes reflective journaling and employer evaluations. | Junior/senior status; completion of at least 1 introductory + 1 technical credit in the pathway; teacher recommendation; employer partnership required. Paid/unpaid options available. |
| Comprehensive Workplace Experience in Architecture and Construction (Course #38110) | 1.0 | Application | Full-year, intensive internship (e.g., 20+ hours/week) integrating advanced skills like blueprint reading, safety protocols, and project management. May lead to NCCER Level 1 credential. Emphasizes Construction Strand trades (e.g., carpentry, plumbing). | Senior status; 2+ pathway credits; prior WBL experience preferred; aligns with Kansas WBL Continuum (personalized learning plan via KSDE guidance). Often paid; can fulfill capstone requirement for CTE completer status. |
These courses are integrated into the pathway sequence:
- Introductory Courses (build basics): Drafting (0.5 cr.), Production Blueprint Reading (0.5 cr.), Introduction to Industrial Technology (0.5 cr.).
- Technical Courses (Construction Strand focus): Carpentry (1 cr.), Woodworking Principles (1 cr.), Skilled Mechanical Crafts (0.5 cr.).
- Application Courses (beyond internships): Research and Design in Building Trades (1 cr.), Carpentry II (1 cr.), HVAC Technology (0.5 cr.), Plumbing Technology (0.5 cr.).
District Examples and Availability
While KSDE sets statewide standards, implementation varies by district. Over 300 Kansas high schools offer approved CTE pathways, with Construction and Design available in ~150 districts (per 2025-2026 KSDE Approved Pathways list). Examples:
- USD 348 (Haysville High School): Construction and Design pathway includes internships via “Workplace Experience” courses; partners with local builders for carpentry/plumbing placements.
- Turner USD 202 (Turner High School): Juniors/seniors in Construction Strand eligible for business internships (e.g., site supervision); requires 3+ pathway credits.
- Kansas City Kansas USD 500: Integrates WBL with Kauffman Foundation Real-World Learning Initiative; construction internships focus on urban trades, leading to 92% postsecondary/employment transition rate for completers.
- Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers (TCALC): Regional hub offering Construction Technology pathway with employer-mentored internships in building trades; busing provided from partnering high schools.
For district-specific availability, check the 2025-2026 KSDE Approved Pathways by District.
Additional Opportunities and Resources
- Excel in CTE Initiative: State-funded tuition for juniors/seniors in technical construction courses at community colleges (e.g., leading to internships).
- Kansas WBL Continuum: Guides personalized plans; includes internships as a “high-quality” experience for completers.
- Certifications: NCCER Core (construction safety/basic skills) often earned during internships.
- How to Get Involved: Contact your high school CTE coordinator or counselor. Applications typically due in fall for spring placements. Visit KSDE CTE Page for handbooks and posters.
This program boasts a 99% high school graduation rate for CTE concentrators and strong workforce outcomes, with construction trades in high demand (median wage: $50,000+ entry-level). For more details, email cte@ksde.org.