Seniors at Valley Oaks Charter School (VOCS) showed off their final projects Thursday evening during the 2026 Senior Showcase. The students are part of the Capstone Career Technical Education (CTE) program focusing on art, design, architecture, metalworking, woodworking and more.
“This is their culminating event. This is the fruits of everything they have done,” said Sarah Samms, CTE Arts Media and Entertainment teacher. “I am incredibly proud of them.”
This is much more than an art exhibit. Students were challenged to create a business, including a website, to showcase and market their pieces, teaching them the principles of creating their own company from scratch.
“They have to do the plans, the material lists, the cutting schedules, write up proposals, write up contracts,” said Todd Warren CTE Woodworking teacher. “It’s so much more than learning to draw something or build something.”
VOCS brought in professionals from various fields to talk with the students and evaluate their projects as part of their final grade. Seniors will celebrate their success with a field trip to the beach.
By Katie Avery
Katie Avery joined the Kern County Superintendent of Schools in 2023 as a Communications Specialist. As a former journalist and marketing professional, her passions include media and storytelling. Before joining KCSOS, Avery worked for various local TV stations as well as the health care industry.