Thank you for everything you have done as CTE’s counselor. Your support, kindness, and dedication to students and staff have made a lasting impact on our school community.
We wish you nothing but success and happiness in this next chapter. You will be greatly missed at CTE! 👏😊
#CTE #ThankYou #GoodLuck #SchoolCounselor #CTEFamily

🏡✨ REMINDER: CTE Academy Open House is TOMORROW! ✨🏡
Don’t miss your chance to tour the 2025-26 CTE Academy Student-Built Home! Come see the incredible craftsmanship, attention to detail, and real-world skills our students have put into every space — from the beautiful modern kitchen to the open-concept living area 👀
📍 1312 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
🗓 Tomorrow May 16
⏰ 2-4 PM
Whether you’re house-hunting, supporting CTE education, or just want to see amazing student work in action, we’d love to see you there!
🔨 And don’t forget — May 20th- the final open house will conclude with the AUCTION!
#CTEAcademy #StudentBuilt #OpenHouseReminder #FutureReady #SiouxFallsHomes #CTEProud #HandsOnLearning 🛠️🏠

Competing against 166 teams across the state, our students showed incredible skill, strategy, and teamwork in this 10-week investing competition.
🥇 1st Place Overall & High School Division Winners:
Isaac Ocegueda and Emely Callejas-Cruz
💰 Final Portfolio Value: $174,646.01
📊 71.97% Return on Investment
🎉 Also congratulations to Zach Pope and Hayden Breece for earning an impressive 9th place finish statewide!
The South Dakota Stock Market Game gives students the opportunity to invest a hypothetical $100,000 in real-time stocks, bonds, and mutual funds while learning valuable lessons in economics, business, personal finance, and investing.
A huge shoutout to teacher Penny Brunken for leading this amazing learning experience! 👏
#CTE #StockMarketGame #FinancialLiteracy #Economics #StudentSuccess #FutureReady


Mrs. Mushaney nominated Austin for the tremendous effort and growth he has shown throughout the semester. Austin has steadily improved his presentation skills and consistently pays attention to the fine details that make his speeches stronger and more effective.
One of Austin’s greatest strengths is his positive attitude. He comes to class each day with a big smile and an encouraging presence that helps create a welcoming classroom environment. 😊
Austin has also demonstrated perseverance and resilience. After falling short of the requirements on a speech assignment, he chose not to give up. Instead, he revised his approach, practiced more, and redid the speech with much better results. His willingness to learn from challenges and continue improving is a great example of determination and growth mindset.
We are proud of Austin for his hard work, positivity, and commitment to improvement. Keep up the great work, Austin! 💙
#CTEAcademy #SeeTheVision #StudentSuccess #GrowthMindset #CTE

Your infectious personality, dedication to students, and passion for Health Careers have made such a lasting impact on CTE. You brought energy, laughter, and encouragement into the classroom every day, and you will truly be missed by both students and staff.
Wishing you all the best in this next chapter — you’ve earned it! 💐👏
#CTE #HealthCareers #Retirement #ThankYouMary #CTEFamily

🗓 Monday, May 18
• Normal school day
🗓 Tuesday, May 19
• Semester Tests for Blocks 1 & 3
• Normal class times
🗓 Wednesday, May 20
• Semester Test for Block 2
• Normal class times
Finish strong, study hard, and good luck on your semester tests! 💪📖
#CTE #SemesterTesting #FinishStrong #StudentReminder

Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and support in Carpentry. Your impact on students, staff, and the CTE program has truly made a difference over the years.
Wishing you all the best in retirement — you will be greatly missed! Enjoy this next chapter! 🏡💙
#Retirement #CTE #Carpentry #ThankYou #CTEFamily

Don’t miss your chance to tour the 2025-26 CTE Academy Student-Built Home! Come see the incredible craftsmanship, attention to detail, and real-world skills our students have put into every space — from the beautiful modern kitchen to the open-concept living area 👀
📍 1312 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
🗓 Tomorrow Night
⏰ 4–6 PM
Whether you’re house-hunting, supporting CTE education, or just want to see amazing student work in action, we’d love to see you there!
🔨 And don’t forget — May 20th- the final open house will conclude with the AUCTION!
#CTEAcademy #StudentBuilt #OpenHouseReminder #FutureReady #SiouxFallsHomes #CTEProud #HandsOnLearning 🛠️🏠

Don’t miss your chance to tour the 2025-26 CTE Academy Student-Built Home! Come see the incredible craftsmanship, attention to detail, and real-world skills our students have put into every space — from the beautiful modern kitchen to the open-concept living area 👀
📍 1312 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
🗓 Tomorrow Night
⏰ 4–6 PM
Whether you’re house-hunting, supporting CTE education, or just want to see amazing student work in action, we’d love to see you there!
🔨 And don’t forget — May 20th- the final open house will conclude with the AUCTION!
#CTEAcademy #StudentBuilt #OpenHouseReminder #FutureReady #SiouxFallsHomes #CTEProud #HandsOnLearning 🛠️🏠

🚨🚑 CTE Mass Casualty Day = SUCCESS! 🚑🚨
Learning was happening all around during our Mass Casualty Simulation Day! From our EMT students to Sioux Falls Fire & Rescue and new cadets, Patient Care EMS, school district staff, and students—this was a true team effort focused on real-world training and collaboration.
Students had the opportunity to step into high-pressure situations, work alongside professionals, and apply their skills in meaningful, hands-on scenarios.
📸 Check out the photos and watch the video below for a glimpse into this incredible day of learning in action!
https://youtu.be/uhOZ0eVrASk
#CTEAcademy #MassCasualty #HandsOnLearning #EMTTraining #SiouxFalls #FutureReady #CareerTechEd










Our Academy of Finance students spent the day in Minneapolis, MN exploring real-world finance and business in action!
Students visited the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis to learn about the nation’s banking system, monetary policy, and the role the Fed plays in our economy.
They also had the chance to tour U.S. Bank Stadium, getting a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most impressive sports and entertainment venues in the country! 🏈
A great day of hands-on learning, real-world connections, and unforgettable experiences! 👏
#CTEAcademy #AOF #HandsOnLearning #FutureReady #Minneapolis #FinanceInAction




✈️🌟 Aviation Alumni Spotlight: Where Are They Now? 🌟✈️
We love seeing where our CTE Aviation students take their skills after high school! Check out what these former students are up to:
👩✈️ Isabel Adkison
Isabel took Aviation I & II in 2021 as a sophomore and returned for her senior capstone. After graduating, she attended Lake Area Technical College (2023–2025) and is now working with Charter First! She credits her CTE experience for making the transition to college smoother and helping her better understand advanced aviation concepts.
👨✈️ Carson Eggert
Carson completed Aviation 1, 2, 3, and senior capstone during high school—and even earned his Private Pilot License his senior year! He shared that the program gave him a strong head start and made learning in college much easier. He even returned during capstone to mentor other students!
These are just a couple examples of how CTE Aviation helps students turn their passion into a future career. 🚀
Check out the current photos are where they are both at now and a few throwback photos from when they were in Aviation class.
#CTEAcademy #AviationPathway #StudentSuccess #FutureReady #CTEProud #AviationEducation




Congratulations to Sondrine, a truly deserving recipient of the CTE Academy’s “See the Vision” Award!
Sondrine consistently demonstrates academic excellence through her dedication, focus, and genuine commitment to learning. She approaches every task with care and attention to detail—always prepared, punctual, and ready to succeed.
Beyond the classroom, Sondrine continues to shine in her internship experience, where she applies her skills with confidence, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. She embraces every opportunity to learn and grow, earning the respect of both her peers and mentors along the way.
What makes Sondrine especially deserving of this recognition is the quiet consistency with which she achieves so much. She may not seek the spotlight, but her character, integrity, and perseverance speak volumes.
Sondrine truly represents the spirit of the “See the Vision” Award, and we are proud to celebrate her accomplishments. We look forward to all she will achieve in the future! ✨
#CTEAcademy #SeeTheVision #StudentSuccess #FutureReady #CTEProud

Congratulations to Daniel Rivas, a 12th-grade student from Jefferson High School, on being recognized with the CTE Academy’s “See the Vision” Award in Creative Writing!
Nominated by his Integrated English teacher, Mrs. Mushaney, Danny is involved in both Creative Writing and Carpentry—a great example of creativity across disciplines.
Throughout the semester, Danny has shown tremendous growth in his writing, consistently producing detailed, thoughtful, and imaginative work. His progress reflects not only his talent, but also his dedication and willingness to challenge himself academically.
Known for his deep thinking and determination, Danny approaches obstacles with perseverance and resilience. Even while balancing a full schedule and overcoming setbacks, he stayed focused and worked hard to get back on track—continuing to strive for excellence.
Danny’s commitment to growth and his creative abilities make him a truly deserving recipient of this award. We are proud to celebrate his accomplishments and can’t wait to see what he achieves next! 👏✨
#CTEAcademy #SeeTheVision #StudentSuccess #CreativeWriting #FutureReady

Her Health Careers teacher, Mrs. Kennedy, reports Fiori has demonstrated incredible growth, perseverance, and determination. Her patience—with herself and others—has allowed her to approach challenges with a positive mindset and a willingness to keep improving. Through consistent effort and dedication, she has shown meaningful academic and personal growth.
Fiori’s outstanding attendance reflects her reliability and commitment to making the most of every opportunity. She arrives each day ready to learn, contribute, and grow.
She has also excelled in her internship experience, where her hard work, positive attitude, and eagerness to learn have truly stood out. Watching her gain confidence and take meaningful steps toward her future has been inspiring.
Fiori represents the heart of the “See the Vision” Award through her resilience, growth, and dedication. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and excited to see all she will achieve in the future!
#CTEAcademy #SeeTheVision #StudentSuccess #CreativeWriting #FutureReady

🏡✨ REMINDER: CTE Academy Open House is TOMORROW! ✨🏡
Don’t miss your chance to tour the 2025-26 CTE Academy Student-Built Home! Come see the incredible craftsmanship, attention to detail, and real-world skills our students have put into every space — from the beautiful modern kitchen to the open-concept living area 👀
📍 1312 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
🗓 Tomorrow May 3rd
⏰ 2-4 PM
Whether you’re house-hunting, supporting CTE education, or just want to see amazing student work in action, we’d love to see you there!
🔨 And don’t forget — May 20th- the final open house will conclude with the AUCTION!
#CTEAcademy #StudentBuilt #OpenHouseReminder #FutureReady #SiouxFallsHomes #CTEProud #HandsOnLearning 🛠️🏠

As an Accountant and Operations Specialist — and a 2014 AOF alum — Shelby joined us on Wednesday, April 22 to dive into Operations and Distribution. Now working remotely from Erie, Pennsylvania, she shared how non-store retail works, including online retail, direct response, vending, direct selling, and even multi-level marketing.
Students also got some inside industry knowledge:
💡 YRB is not allowed by New Sunshine to sell products online
💡 Pricing psychology matters — lotions often end in 3 or 9 (think $49 or $153)
💡 Service pricing is all about tiers — single day, 7-day, monthly, and yearly options with add-ons
💡 Store layout is strategic — YRB uses a horseshoe design with premium services up front and key areas placed intentionally
We were also excited to welcome 6 students from Whittier as special guests for the day!
Thank you, Shelby, for giving our students a behind-the-scenes look at how operations really work! 👏
#CTEAcademy #AOFAlumni #OperationsManagement #RealWorldLearning #StudentSuccess #YearRoundBrown #FutureLeaders

As part of their visit, Whittier 8th graders had the opportunity to explore CTE classes—and a select few even got to join us for a few days for an extended, hands-on experience!
✨ Students got to:
• Make concha dough
• Whip up edible cookie dough
• Experience what it’s like to learn in a professional culinary lab
They also heard from a former CTE Culinary student—now attending the Culinary Institute of America—who shared what life is like in New York and what it takes to succeed in the culinary world. Talk about inspiration! 🌟
👏 Thanks for visiting, Whittier! We hope to see some future bakers and chefs back in our kitchens soon.
#CTE #CulinaryArts #BakingAndPastries #HandsOnLearning #FutureChefs #CareerReady



On Wednesday, April 22, students competed in the Junior Achievement Stock Market Event at the Convention Center, going head-to-head with 17 teams from Sioux Falls and Warner—each starting with a simulated $500,000 portfolio!
Our teams showed strong strategy, teamwork, and financial decision-making throughout the competition. Check out their results:
🏅 5th Place – Stratton Oakmont Inc. – 120% ROI
🏅 6th Place – Campus Heros – 99% ROI
📊 11th Place – 3 Assets – 20% ROI
📊 13th Place – Cash Flow Crew – 17% ROI
📊 17th Place – The Golden Girls – 0.01% ROI
We are proud of all our students for stepping into the world of investing and gaining real-world financial skills! 💡👏
#CTEAcademy #JuniorAchievement #StockMarketChallenge #FutureReady #FinancialLiteracy #StudentSuccess










On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the CTE Academy will be hosting a community-wide Mass Casualty Simulation/Exercise. This hands-on training gives our students an incredible opportunity to work alongside local professionals, including the Sioux Falls Police Department, Fire Department, Patient Care EMS, and Southeast Tech students, to practice real-world disaster response.
🌀 What to expect:
Mock tornado
Mock plane crash
Mock school bus accident
Emergency vehicles on-site throughout the day
Our EMT students will be actively assessing and treating “patients” in realistic (but controlled and supported) scenarios, guided by experienced professionals. To enhance the experience, some CTE students—with parent permission—will participate as actors portraying victims.
📚 Important Notes:
Regular classes will continue as scheduled unless students are participating
Emergency vehicles will be present at the building all day
This is a training exercise only
We appreciate your help in spreading the word to avoid any confusion in the community!
📞 Questions? Contact Don Ryswyk, CTE Assistant Principal, at 605-367-5504
#CTEAcademy #HandsOnLearning #FutureHealthcare #EMTTraining #SiouxFalls #CareerTechEd #CommunityPartnership
