Program Description
Students in the Business Education program will develop an international sense of business, acquire competence in the use of complex technologies while exploring their interests, and master essential skills such as effective communications, teamwork, and an appreciation for continuous learning. Students have an opportunity to participate in the Cooperative Office Education Program and FBLA co-curricular activities to develop employability and leadership skills. A lab fee is required for some courses.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is the career and technical education student organization for all individuals enrolled in business courses. The activities of FBLA are an integral part of the business program and are designed to prepare students for leadership and careers in business through business-related education and entrepreneurial skill development, community service and partnerships with the professional sector. Students in Medical Systems Administration may participate in HOSA (Future Health Professionals) This organization features leadership activities in addition to opportunities for state and national level competitive events.
Work-based Learning
Cooperative Education (Co-op) and Internships are high-quality work-based learning experiences for juniors and seniors that place the student in a workplace environment. This placement allows the student to develop and practice knowledge and skills for a specific career field related to the student’s career interests, abilities, and goals. Co-op is a paid work-based learning experience while internships may be paid or unpaid. Co-op and internships are connected to classroom learning and are guided by a formal, written training plan that defines specific academic, technical, and workplace skills to be mastered. Applications may be obtained from a school counselor or a CTE teacher.
On-the-job hours required to earn credit through cooperative education or internship are as follows:
140 hours = .5 credit
280 hours = 1 credit
Job shadowing is a short-term experience available as a part of Career and Technical Education courses through an application process. Juniors and seniors who are currently enrolled in CTE courses or who have completed a coherent sequence of CTE courses are eligible. The application process includes student narrative and teacher recommendation. Students participating in this work-based learning experience are required to complete a reflective exercise.
Credentialing
The High School Industry Credentialing initiative encourages students to work toward a selected industry credential or state license while pursuing a high school diploma. The Virginia Department of Education evaluates on an on-going basis industry credentials against prescribed criteria for graduation requirements for the Standard Diploma (8VAC20-131-50.B) and student-selected verified credit (8VAC20-131-110.C). Credentialing exams are available to any student taking a Career and Technical Education course.
Credits
1.0
Students study basic management concepts and leadership styles as they explore business ownership, planning, operations, marketing, finance, economics, communications, the global marketplace, and human relations. Quality concepts, project management, problem solving, and ethical decision making are an integral part of the course. Student leadership skills may be enhanced by participation in school-based or virtual enterprises, job shadowing, internships, cooperative education, and/or the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.
Credits
2.0
Students study basic management concepts and leadership styles as they explore business ownership, planning, operations, marketing, finance, economics, communications, the global marketplace, and human relations. Quality concepts, project management, problem solving, and ethical decision making are an integral part of the course. Student leadership skills may be enhanced by participation in school-based or virtual enterprises, job shadowing, internships, cooperative education, and/or the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.
Credits
1.0
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success. Instruction in economics and personal finance prepares students to function effectively as consumers, savers, investors, entrepreneurs, and active citizens. Students learn how economies and markets operate and how the United States’ economy is interconnected with the global economy. On a personal level, students learn that their own human capital (knowledge and skills) is their most valuable resource. This course is required for graduation.
Credits
2.0
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success. Instruction in economics and personal finance prepares students to function effectively as consumers, savers, investors, entrepreneurs, and active citizens. Students learn how economies and markets operate and how the United States’ economy is interconnected with the global economy. On a personal level, students learn that their own human capital (knowledge and skills) is their most valuable resource. This course is required for graduation.