Irving, TX — Irving Independent School District has been recognized as a 2026 Career & Technical Education (CTE) District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas. This is the third year in a row that Irving ISD is honored with the CTE District of Distinction.
The designation, announced March 5, 2026, highlights school districts that demonstrate innovation, dedication, and excellence in preparing students for future careers through high-quality career and technical education programs.
Officials said the honor reflects Irving ISD’s continued commitment to preparing the next generation of workers, innovators, and industry leaders.
The CTE District of Distinction designation recognizes districts that excel in providing programs aligned with high-wage, in-demand careers while creating meaningful partnerships with industry and community leaders.
Districts selected for the honor are evaluated through a detailed scoring rubric that includes several categories such as district demographics, programs of study aligned with workforce needs, industry-based certifications, funding compliance, and curriculum quality.
Other evaluation areas include career and technical student organizations, community and business partnerships, teacher quality and professional development, student outcomes such as graduation rates and academic performance, community engagement, and continuous improvement through stakeholder feedback.
Nationally Recognized CTE Programs
Irving ISD’s Career and Technical Education programs have received national recognition for providing students with hands-on learning opportunities and real-world career experiences.
CTE programs in the district allow students to explore career paths starting in middle school and continuing throughout high school. Students gain exposure to various industries including aviation, engineering, education, and culinary arts.
In addition to classroom learning, students participate in experiences such as guest speakers, job shadowing, and internships designed to prepare them for the workforce after graduation.
Middle School Career Exploration
Irving ISD middle school students begin exploring career options in seventh and eighth grade.
Students can earn high school credit while participating in career-focused courses and hands-on projects. They also collaborate with peers through Verizon Innovative Learning Labs (VILS).
The VILS program is available at Austin, Bowie, Crockett, de Zavala, Houston, Johnson, Lamar, and Travis middle schools. The labs provide interactive environments where students can investigate career interests through project-based learning.
High School Career Pathways
High school students across the district participate in Irving ISD’s extensive CTE program.
Students in grades 9 through 12 take coursework each year aligned with their chosen career pathway. Many programs also allow students to earn industry certifications before graduation.
All five Irving ISD high schools participate in the CTE program, including Cardwell Prep, Irving High School, MacArthur High School, Nimitz High School, and Singley Academy.
Students can choose from a wide range of career pathways including automotive technology, aviation maintenance, architecture, biomedical sciences, business management, construction technology, cosmetology, culinary arts, cybersecurity, dental assisting, engineering, entrepreneurship, law enforcement, marketing, nursing science, programming, robotics manufacturing, veterinary science, welding, and many others.
District leaders say the programs are designed to equip students with practical skills and career-ready experience that align with today’s workforce demands.
By continuing to expand innovative career pathways and industry partnerships, Irving ISD aims to ensure students graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in college, technical training, or the workforce.
