9th Grade Exploratory Program

The Connecticut Technical High School System (CTHSS) ensures each ninth grade student participates in the technology exploratory program.  The exploratory program introduces each student to the goals and objectives for each trade/technology; provides an objective measure of student performance and a measure of potential for success for each student in all trades/technologies.

The ninth grade exploratory year is viewed as an extension of the admission process that serves as (1) a verification of the student’s desire for a technical education and (2) as an assessment of technical aptitudes. The exploratory program is divided into three phases: Phase I gives students career information on each trade technology offered; Phase II gives each student a hands-on experience in three trade technology areas; and, Phase III gives students a permanent placement  to begin the study of a trade/technology that he/she will concentrate on for the next three years.

Please Note:  In order for a student to continue in the CTHSS beyond grade nine, he/she must successfully complete the exploratory program.  Successful completion is defined as a grade of 60 or higher in Phase III, as well as a cumulative grade of 60 or higher in the exploratory program.  Failure to successfully complete the exploratory program will make it necessary for a student to transfer back to his/her sending district.