The DHS Career and Technology Education (CTE) Department

    The Career and Technology Department can be reached by phone at 240-207-2462

    Philosophy:

    The DHS Career and Technology Education (CTE) Department believes that all students should have access to meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect academic knowledge with real-world skills. We are committed to preparing students not only for immediate employment and post-secondary education but also for lifelong learning in a rapidly changing global economy. Our philosophy is rooted in the idea that education should empower students to explore their interests, develop technical and professional competencies, and make informed decisions about their future career paths.

    We value diversity, inclusion, innovation, and integrity, and we believe that every student can benefit from a curriculum that bridges the gap between classroom learning and career readiness. Through partnerships with industry, community organizations, and post-secondary institutions, we strive to offer programs that are relevant, rigorous, and responsive to workforce demands.

    Goals:

    1. Career Readiness – Equip students with the technical, academic, and employability skills necessary for success in the workforce and/or further education.

    2. Real-World Application – Provide hands-on, project-based learning experiences that simulate real-world challenges and encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

    3. Industry Alignment – Align curriculum with current industry standards and certifications to ensure students graduate with competitive, in-demand skills.

    4. Pathway Development – Offer diverse career pathways that allow students to explore multiple fields, including but not limited to health sciences, engineering, business, information technology, trades, and family & consumer sciences.

    5. Equity and Access – Promote inclusive practices to ensure all students, regardless of background, have equitable access to CTE programs, resources, and opportunities.

    6. Community and Industry Partnerships – Foster strong relationships with local businesses, workforce boards, and post-secondary institutions to enhance program quality and create meaningful internship, apprenticeship, and dual-enrollment opportunities.

    7. Professional Growth – Support ongoing professional development for educators to stay current with industry trends, technology, and instructional best practices.

    8. Student Empowerment – Encourage leadership, personal responsibility, and goal-setting through student organizations, competitions, and career exploration activities.

    Career and Technology Staff

    • Tyler Brooks, AP Computer Programming, Computer Programming 1, Foundations of Computer Science
      Tyler_Brooks@mcpsmd.org
    • Jeff Hanson*, Cisco Networking, Cybersecurity, Linux Essentials
      Jeffrey_L_Hanson@mcpsmd.org
    • Josh Klotz, Career/Work Experience
      Joshua_Klotz@mcpsmd.org
    • Kimberly Krill, Child Development
      Kimberly_A_Krill@mcpsmd.org 
    • Lori Mayhew, Horticulture
      Lori_L_Mayhew@mcpsmd.org
    • Dave McGaffin, Honors and On-level Biology, Anatomy
      David_E_McGaffin@mcpsmd.org
    • Raul Ortiz, Autotech
      Raul_J_Ortiz@mcpsmd.org
    • Chad Sandefur, AP Lang and Composition, Honors English 10
      Chad_A_Sandefur@mcpsmd.org
    • Todd Shiffler, Carpentry, Foundations of Technology
      Todd_F_Shiffler@mcpsmd.org
    • Lea Sybrant, Professional Restaurant Management
      Vasileah_K_Sybrant@mcpsmd.org
    • Brian Wall, Foundations of Computer Science, IT Essentials
      Brian_P_Wall@mcpsmd.org

    *Resource Teacher

    This is a link to a short video published by MCPS that highlights some of the Career Programs offered at Damascus High School

    Specific Programs of Study (POS) Pathways