Message from the Principal

The Kern High School District’s Regional Occupational Center (ROC) and Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) offer a wide variety of career education programs for students throughout the community. With over 40 different programs being offered between the two sites during the regular school day and evening hours, there is something for everyone.

All programs are aligned to postsecondary education and industry standards, which provides students with an excellent opportunity to get started on their career path. Students get advanced training on both the career readiness and technical skills that will prepare them for postsecondary education and employment. Programs offer industry recognized certification opportunities and work based learning through partnerships with local employers. Programs are a-g approved to meet the expectations of the California State University and University of California systems. Students have the opportunity to earn both high school and college credits in the majority of the programs, which will help prepare them for the rigors of postsecondary education. 

I strongly encourage all high school students to consider attending a program at ROC/CTEC during their junior and/or senior year as it is a great way for everyone to get a head start on a career path. Interested students should start talking to their counselor as early as their freshman year. Students are also encouraged to talk to one of our Career Technicians who visit their school site every few weeks throughout the school year. Students apply to attend a program through an online application found on the webpage at roc.kernhigh.org. The application period lasts from the beginning of November through the beginning of March each year. Adults interested in taking a program should make an appointment to meet with a Career Technician in the Student Success Center at either campus.

In addition to the standard career education programs, there are additional opportunities provided to youth at ROC/CTEC. A newly opened Entrepreneurship Resource Center located at both campuses provides entrepreneurial based programming and opportunities for K-12 students. Budding entrepreneurs can come and get access to resources, training, and mentoring services. During the summer months a variety of career exploration camps are offered to junior high students at ROC/CTEC, with the intention of opening their eyes to future opportunities. Participation in numerous community events by ROC/CTEC students and staff attributes to our mission to be a service minded organization. The school website is a great source of information for everything that we have to offer to the community.

Partnerships are a critical component of the student success at ROC/CTEC. Our industry partners provide direction to our instructors and offer our students a variety of work based learning opportunities. Our postsecondary education partners work with us to align our programs to ensure high quality pathways and a smooth transition to postsecondary education. We are always looking to add to our network of partners and welcome new partnership opportunities. Together we are building a well trained workforce. 

Every year we see hundreds of students complete their program and take advantage of the opportunities that are provided to them at the centers. These students go on to do amazing things and will be the future leaders of our community. Consider enrolling in a program at ROC/CTEC so you can be the next student success story.

Sincerely,

Brian Miller

Principal