Courses in this pathway focus on plant and animal sciences, environmental sustainability, and agricultural business.

• Fundamentals of Agriscience: Introduction to agriculture, including plant science, animal science, and forestry
• Floriculture & Floral Design: Learn floral design techniques and business operations
• Horticulture: Hands-on farming techniques and plant care
• Aquaculture Science: Study aquatic species, hydroponics, and aquaponics
• Greenhouse & Nursery Production: Learn greenhouse operations and plant propagation
• Senior Career Pathway Project: Capstone project applying agricultural skills

Industry Certifications: Land Survey Helper Certification, Skid Steer Certification, Specialty Crops

For students interested in broadcasting, video production, and digital media, this pathway includes:

• Media Production Foundations: Basics of video production and editing
• Broadcasting Production I: Writing, Producing & Performing: On-camera and behind-the-scenes experiences with advanced video editing and filmmaking techniques
• Broadcasting Production II: Long-term and promotional video projects

Industry Certifications: Adobe Premiere Pro

For students interested in teaching and educational careers, this program includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

• Foundations in Education: Introduction to careers in education and classroom management
• Practices in Education: Lesson planning and teaching strategies
• Methods in Education: Advanced classroom instruction techniques
• Education & Training Internship: Work-based learning experience in local schools

Industry Certifications: PRAXIS Core Academic Skills, ETS Parapro Assessment, Google Educator Certification

This pathway focuses on engineering, design, and technology applications.

• Foundations of Engineering & Technology: Introduction to engineering disciplines and 3D design
• Applications of Engineering & Technology: Hands-on projects in mechanics and automation
• Environmental Engineering: Addressing global challenges like clean water and energy
• Senior Career Pathway Project: Independent study with a mentor
   

Industry Certifications: SolidWorks Associate

Students gain knowledge and experience in healthcare careers, including certifications that allow them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

• Foundations of Health Science: Introduction to medical careers, anatomy, and first aid
• Patient Care Technician: Hands-on training in medical procedures
• Pharmacy Technician: Prepares students for careers in pharmaceutical services
• Therapeutic Services: Nursing, medicine, and emergency care fundamentals
• Sports Medicine: Injury prevention and rehabilitation techniques
• Health Science Internship: Real-world experience in medical facilities
• Nurse Aide Training: CNA certification program
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Prepares students for the National Registry EMT exam
   

Industry Certifications: CNA, EMT-B, Certified Pharmacy Technician, Patient Care Technician, EKG Technician, Emergency Medical Responder

Students prepare for careers in restaurant management, food service, and hospitality.

• Introduction to Hospitality & Tourism: Overview of the service industry
• Culinary Arts 1: Food preparation and kitchen safety
• Culinary Arts 2: Advanced food production and restaurant management
• Baking & Pastry Arts: Specialization in desserts, bread, and pastries
• Senior Career Pathway Project: Capstone culinary project

Industry Certifications: ServSafe Manager, Guest Service Professional

Students interested in computers, networking, and cybersecurity gain hands-on technical experience.

• IT Fundamentals – Introduction to computer maintenance and troubleshooting
• Network Fundamentals – Learn about computer networking and security
• Computer Maintenance & Troubleshooting – Advanced computer repair skills
• Cybersecurity – Protecting data and detecting cyber threats
• AP Computer Science Principles – Introduction to coding and software development
• AP Computer Science A (Java) – College-level programming course
• Senior Career Pathway Project – Capstone IT project

Industry Certifications: CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA A+, Skills for Success Fiber Optics

Students explore entrepreneurship, marketing, and financial management with real-world applications.

• Career Preparedness: Essential business and financial literacy skills (required for graduation)
• Entrepreneurship: Business development and innovation
• Marketing Principles: Foundations of marketing and sales strategies
• Sports & Entertainment Marketing: Business aspects of the sports and entertainment industry
• Senior Career Pathway Project: Capstone business project

Industry Certifications: Microsoft Office Specialist, Customer Service & Sales, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Certified Guest Service Professional

The Alabama Career Essentials (ACE) program equips students with the tools they need for life beyond high school, including employability skills, industry-recognized certifications, and free college credit opportunities. 

The Alabama Career Essentials (ACE) program at Opelika High School is formerly known as Ready To Work. This program is a FREE, industry-focused training course designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in the workforce. 

It’s tailored for seniors exploring alternatives to traditional four-year universities after graduation.

If you have questions, or want to enroll, contact Mrs. Edwards at mandi.edwards@opelikaschools.org.