College & Career Readiness

Freshman Seminar Class

Freshman Seminar is a credit-bearing, work-based learning course in which all 9th-grade students are automatically enrolled. The course is designed to support students’ transition into high school by helping them build meaningful connections with teachers and peers, develop essential study habits and professional skills, explore career interests, and engage with community and business leaders. While all students are enrolled, some may be exempt from taking the course under special circumstances.

While this class is not required, it is highly encouraged. In the first class of freshmen that took the class, an average of 78% of students felt more prepared for high school, and that the class was beneficial.

Freshman Seminar Book

Why choose CTE? Earn college credit, gain industry certifications, and jumpstart high-wage careers—all while in high school.

Our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce. By aligning our curriculum with industry standards and local economic needs, we ensure our students are first in line for the most competitive jobs in the region.

• Real-World Application: Students apply academic concepts to practical, hands-on projects.
• Industry Partnerships: Programs are developed in collaboration with local companies to meet current workforce demands.
• Comprehensive Skill Building: We focus on the “whole professional,” teaching technical mastery alongside communication, leadership, and citizenship.
• High-Impact Pathways: Designed specifically for high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand career tracks.

What does CRCSD offer?

Launched in 1972, the student-built house program is a year-long residential trades program for Cedar Rapids Community School District high school juniors and seniors. During the year, students build a single family home from the ground up, and develop technical skills, collaborate with local employers, and explore related careers.

This school year, will be the 53rd home built by students in the 53-54th year of the program. This years house will be located in Cedar Rapids.

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