HQ CTE Framework Proficiency
Status: Active
Awarded: 10/19/2026
Badge Evidence | Completed Courses (4 Hours Each)
HQ101High-Quality CTE: Standards-aligned and Integrated Curriculum
Standards-based, collaboratively developed curriculum is the backbone of high-quality CTE programs of study. For this reason, Standards-aligned and Integrated Curriculum is one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®.
The Standards-aligned and Integrated Curriculum element of ACTE's quality framework includes seven criteria that address the development, implementation, and revision of program of study curriculum, including the relevant knowledge and skills taught in the program and the standards on which they are based.
This course discusses the seven criteria as well as practical strategies in applying the criteria to develop standards-aligned and integrated curriculum. The course also includes success stories and curated resources to help CTE practitioners develop and implement high-quality curriculum.
HQ102High-Quality CTE: Sequencing and Articulation
Sequencing and Articulation is one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®. This element of the high-quality framework addresses the key components of a program of study, and the articulation, coordination and collaboration that support programs of study, career pathways, and accelerated learning.
Modules focus on the progression of knowledge and skills, vertically aligned and non-duplicated programs, sequencing for recognized credentials, multiple entry and exit points, providing opportunities for articulated credit, collaboration among instructors at different levels, and coordination within a career pathways system.
HQ105High-Quality CTE: Engaging Instruction
CTE students need opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and skills that are aligned to standards through active and engaged learning strategies. For this reason, Engaging Instruction is one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®. This course addresses instructional strategies in a student-centered learning environment that supports attainment of relevant content knowledge and skills.
It is designed to provide CTE educators with tools to create cross-curricular classroom content for technical, academic, and employability skill development in a dynamic learning environment. Integrating various methods of content delivery through authentic project-, problem-, inquiry-, and challenge-based learning will be addressed, as well as differentiating learning and practical applications considering the equipment, technology, and course-related materials utilized.
HQ108High-Quality CTE: Business and Community Partnerships
CTE programs benefit from creating partnerships with organizations in their community such as employers, nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations and workforce boards. For this reason, Business and Community Partnerships is one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®.
These partnerships allow educators and community members to combine forces and provide input on CTE program quality and alignment to the labor market, experiential learning activities, and support for students. The course explores the different roles each partner can play and their impact on students, instructors and faculty, and the quality of the CTE program. Success stories from partnerships across the United States will be shared, along with advice for how to sustain them.
