HQ CTE Framework Proficiency
Status: Active
Awarded: 04/29/2026
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.
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.
HQ109High-Quality CTE: Student Career Development
Student Career Development is one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®. This course addresses strategies that help CTE and career development professionals design and implement a comprehensive career development model. Educators will learn how learners gain career knowledge and engage in education and career planning and decision-making, including career counseling, career assessments, and curricula that help them learn about careers, educational opportunities, workforce trends, postsecondary planning and job search information, and placement services. In addition, educators will consider how to engage in professional development to further develop their own knowledge and skills around career development.
HQ110High-Quality CTE: Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs)
Career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) are an integral part of a student's instructional program and CTE experience. They provide opportunities for skill and leadership development and career exploration. For this reason, CTSOs are one of ACTE's 12 elements of high-quality CTE within the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®.
This element includes eight criteria addressing how CTSOs fit within CTE programs, their alignment to relevant standards, opportunities offered by CTSOs, and the CTSO advisor role. This course will describe successes to emulate, failures to avoid, and resources to help practitioners implement and support CTSOs.
