Vocational education for Sharon High School students is also provided through an affiliation with the Mercer County Career Center.
Counselors from the Mercer County Career Center visit tenth grade students each year. During one visit, the counselors conduct a visual and audio presentation that explains the purpose of vocational training and the opportunities available. Any student interested in vocational training is excused from school for a half-day visitation to the school. During this visit the students are given a tour of the programs available. Students may return for a visit to a specific program if they need more information and exposure.
Applications are made at the end of the sophomore year to attend the Career Center. Guidance counselors will schedule accepted students for one-half day in the home school and one-half day at the Mercer County Career Center.
Vocational students are transported each day after the second period to Mercer to attend afternoon classes at the Career Center. In addition to academic studies at the home school, students earn three credits for vocational training. Students completing all course requirements for graduation, which are designed to meet state as well as local guidelines, are issued a Sharon High School diploma.
The automotive industry has a rich heritage and exciting future. That future is reflected in auto body technology, one of the fastest growing and most innovative fields in the industry. You use cutting edge technology based on Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Standards as you estimate damage, replace parts and refinish/detail as you prepare a vehicle for customer delivery. Learning welding, plastic repair, refinishing/painting creates career opportunities in manufacturing, fabrication as well as auto body technology. Instruction takes place in a safe, clean, well-equipped shop.
Ninety percent of your training is hands-on! You practice your skills while working on trainers, customer cars, and your own car. Training is based on Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Standards and includes: Brakes, Electrical Systems, Engine Performance, Suspension and Steering. Students can expand their studies into small engine repair, high performance engine work and earn their state inspection and emission certifications.
The one course “cluster”. Students learn basic skills in Electricity, Masonry, Plumbing, Carpentry/Cabinet Making, Welding, and HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration). Many students develop advanced skills in one or more of these technical areas. Students will learn to safely operate a wide variety of hand tools and power machinery. During the first year, students study and develop skills in all of the program areas. In the second year, students are encouraged to specialize in one of the program areas.
Carpentry
Carpenters literally build the future by constructing and remodeling houses, apartments, and commercial buildings. Join the carpentry team and learn to build like a pro! Use computers and architectural design software to draw floor plans and renderings. Construct a house using the latest tools. Visit area work sites, meet professional builders, and visit the Carpenter’s Union to learn how to earn your journeyman’s card. Visit colleges and learn about advanced degrees in Management and Engineering. Learn how experienced carpenters advance into supervisory positions or own their own business. Plan your career in an industry that offers high wages, excellent job opportunities, and employs over 8.3 million people!
Computer and Office Technology prepares students for an interesting and challenging career using computers or working in a business setting. Use your creative talents to design and maintain web pages, use the Internet effectively, and prepare common business documents. Expertise will be developed in preparing spreadsheets, designing electronic presentations and using the latest computer equipment and software. If you make things happen, like variety, are organized and creative, a career using computerized office technology is for you.
Cosmetology
Experience the world of beauty and fashion through the Cosmetology program. Use cutting edge techniques to deliver precision hair cuts, perms, chemical relaxing, braiding, manicures, facials and hair color treatments. Two days a week students will master their skills on customers in the student-operated salon. Students successfully completing 1250 hours of instruction are eligible for licensure from the Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology.
Culinary
The course is designed to give students the basic skills needed to start a career in the restaurant and hospitality industry. You are actively involved in all aspects of operating the school restaurant. You will create food for all areas of the menu from appetizers to desserts in our professionally equipped kitchen and bakery. The curriculum and professional equipment are designed to develop skills in all facets of the food service industry and equip students for immediate employment or post high school training.
Diesel Mechanics
Designed to help students develop “hands-on” skills and knowledge needed to enter the rewarding field of the diesel repair industry. Learn the skills needed to pursue careers in a multitude of areas, including but not limited to: welding, hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, as well as “bumper to bumper” diesel repair. In addition to classroom instruction, students diagnose, service, and repair all aspects of diesel related equipment. This is accomplished using modern “high-tech” scan tools and personal computer interfaces. Diesel engines have become more fuel efficient, lighter, quieter, and environmentally friendly. These factors have created an increased demand for talented and skilled technicians. This program has a long proud history of student success and service to the community.
Early Childhood Education
You learn the skills needed to work with young children. Expertise is obtained in a fully equipped preschool. Students can earn hours toward their Child Development Associate Certification. This program creates employment opportunities for you in the following areas: preschool, family daycare provider, infant care giver, recreational aide, primary classroom aide, and teacher’s aide.
Electronics Technology
Unravel the mysteries and excitement of the world of electronics using exciting, fun, hands-on projects. Have you ever wondered how your cellular phone works? What’s inside your television? You will understand all as you Build-N-Learn exciting projects that open doors to many career and post-secondary training opportunities. While applying advanced mathematics and computer technology you build telephones, security alarm systems and rockets. This exciting project-based learning system enables you the student to progress at your own pace to unlock your future, thus preparing students for the workplace or post-secondary education.
Classes are conducted at local area hospitals giving you an opportunity to explore the health care field first hand. This select program is designed for students who are considering education beyond high school in healthcare. The job shadowing and clinical experience that is available to you as a high school student, will help you make informed decisions about your future without paying the high cost of tuition. Studies include: Anatomy and Physiology, Medical terminology, and Nurse aide training. This is an excellent opportunity for students who want to experience the health delivery system with all five senses while advancing their academic training.
Precision Production Metals
This course is designed for students to gain knowledge and skills with an emphasis in machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, hydraulics and pneumatics. Areas are taught through a competency-based delivery system using hands-on assignments to develop technical skills. Through a variety of projects, students will be able to plan, setup, operate machines, as well as to manufacture and assemble metals.
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