OATC has programs for upper-classman where they can learn different skilled-trades ranging from Auto Tech & Collision to intro-level Health Care Careers. Students in OATC spend 4 hours of the day at their home high school, and 3 hours at OATC for very specialized learning.

The application period for OATC is typically announced in October of the previous year. Students MUST attend a tour or visit to be eligible to apply for OATC. Tour dates and application deadlines will be shared when available. Please email your counselor to let them know if you plan to attend.

Email counselor Lacey McDannald Gillis for more information.

Linking academics to post-high school plans can make school more relevant to your student.

In the Olathe Public Schools, students begin to explore careers in elementary school through guidance classes taught by the counselor and through other classroom activities.

The district, with input from staff, parents and students, has subscribed to an interactive service for middle school and high school students. This service, Career Cruising, can enhance both academic and career planning.

Career Cruising has many features including helping students choose high school courses and enabling them to maintain individual electronic portfolios as they progress through graduation.

Students and parents can use the Web-based career exploration and planning tool at www.careercruising.com/ from home or school. The site features:

• Interest and skills assessment to help identify possible career options
• Career profiles of hundreds of occupations, including links to career and college programs
• Multi-media interviews with people in various occupations
• College and financial aid information and search tools for identifying college and scholarship options for your student
• Electronic career portfolio for developing education and career plans
• Resume builder integrated with the portfolio helps students create and print professional-looking resumes

Parents are welcome to take a tour of the Career Cruising website, or contact their child's school counselor for a password that allows access to more specific information.