Career and Technical Education
Ridge Community High School offers students a wide array of opportunity to learn trade skills in a variety of academies. Students work through rigorous programs learning skills that are marketable and employable to their chosen industry. Industry certification opportunities are available for students to further enhance their marketability. Students have the opportunity to work with community partners to learn and apply their skills learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Scroll down to learn more about the RCHS Career Academies!
We offer students an introduction to the construction industry. Students gain the necessary knowledge with classroom instruction using textbooks, video instruction, guest speakers from the construction industry, and hands-on applications. With the knowledge and skills students gain in this class, they will be able to safely operate hand tools, portable power tools, and stationary power equipment. Students are also given valuable instruction on interview skills, formulating material lists, finance, and many other areas. With all of the combined studies that students gain it will better prepare them for success in their future career endeavors.
Contact: Mr. Cody McQuarrie – cody.mcquarrie@polk-fl.net
This program will get you started on your road to success in the culinary industry. Here you’ll learn what it takes to create delicious dishes and learn valuable skills needed in and out of the classroom through a hands-on environment. Whether you’re an aspiring chef or planning on owning your own restaurant we will provide the knowledge to get you there. We have competitions, certifications and scholarship opportunities that keep you challenged all year long.
Contact: Mrs. Lashawnee Carlisle – lashawnee.carlisle@polk-fl.net
The Academy of Education provides experience and specialized instruction for students interested in working with children. Students help operate a program that provides care for children from 3 to 5 years of age, giving the high school students hands-on experience with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program also gives students the opportunity to interact with children on a daily basis, allowing them to discover if they are suited for a career in working with children.
Contact: Mrs. Kaitlyn Keefer – kaitlyn.keefer@polk-fl.net
Contact: Mrs. Suzanna Drasheff – suzanna.drasheff@polk-fl.net
In this nationally accredited certified academy, the students will be prepared for an exciting future as a healthcare professional. Through classwork and hands-on experience, students gain knowledge in anatomy, medical terminology, disease processes and much more. Students can earn industry certifications as they begin to focus their career choices through the different health career pathways that we offer, including EKG Technician, Nursing Assisting, Intro to Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, and Allied Health.
Contact: Mrs. Jennifer Parrish – jennifer.parrish@polk-fl.net
Ridge Community Veterinary Academy students learn and interact with a wide variety of animals and situations. Student’s work in real life practicums in and out of the classroom doing various activities from learning about small and large animals and basic husbandry skills. Students are involved in local fairs (Youth Fair, State Fair, and Strawberry Festival) and compete in FFA career development events to sharpen their skills. Students get the experience of working through internships (SPCA, with local veterinarians, and local ranches). Students run and work in our school-based enterprise, Doggie Day Care. The academy is equipped with industry-standard equipment to house large and small animals. Our facilities include in-room library, computer lab, and greenhouse.
Contact: Mrs. Danielle Evans – danielle.evans@polk-fl.net
