Career & Technical Education (CTE)

February is Career and Technical Education Month

February is nationally recognized as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate programs that prepare students for high-demand careers, further education, and military service. CTE programs play a vital role in workforce development and student success by offering hands-on learning, college credit opportunities, and real-world experience.

At Rainier, we are proud to offer five Career and Technical Education programs, each providing practical skills and meaningful pathways for students.

Agriculture Education

Instructor: Angie Karnes
Angie Karnes has served Rainier students for 31 years, bringing a wealth of practical knowledge and essential life skills to the classroom. Her courses include Beginning and Advanced Floral, Beginning and Advanced Landscape, Biotechnology, Agricultural Business, and Environmental Science. These hands-on classes are enhanced by participation in extended opportunities through FFA.

Agriculture Shop

Instructor: Kyle Johnson
Kyle Johnson joined Rainier High School in 2024 and brings a fresh approach to trades and industry education. His program is structured into Shop 1–4, allowing students to progressively build skills and knowledge. Kyle also offers a middle school shop program that introduces basic woodworking skills and real-world applications. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and is supported by optional activities through FFA.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Instructor: Adam Cornwall
Adam Cornwall has been part of the Rainier community since 2007. His STEM program emphasizes technology and robotics, with middle school students engaging in hands-on, project-based learning. Students have extended opportunities through participation in TSA (Technology Student Association).

 

Family and Consumer Science Education

Instructor: Michele Baker
Michele Baker has served the district since 2002 and brings extensive knowledge and experience to her program. She teaches Careers in Education, Health and Fitness, Foods and Nutrition, and Food Science. Students benefit from extended classroom learning through Interact (Rotary International).

Business Education

Instructor: Sandy Rossmaier, CTE Director
Sandy Rossmaier has been with Rainier since 1984. While the curriculum has evolved over time, current offerings include Accounting, Office User Specialist, Entrepreneurship, Personal Finance, Senior English, Yearbook, Leadership, and Introduction to Business. Beginning in the fall, Introduction to Business will transition to Freshman Financial Literacy. The program also offers Work-Based Learning, allowing students to earn credit while employed. Optional extended learning opportunities are supported through FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America).

Rainier’s CTE programs continue to provide students with the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to succeed in their future careers and beyond.

Picture below of CTE Staff at CTE and Artificial Intelligence Conference in October. 
Back to left:  Chloe Johnson (Kyle's wife), Adam Cornwall, Michele Baker, Kyle Johnson, Angie Karnes and selfie Sandy Rossmaier.