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Catalina Foothills School District

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Academics Overview

Academics Overview

Sheryl Castro

Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment

 

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An Education for Tomorrow’s World

At Catalina Foothills School District, academic excellence is about more than mastering content—it’s about preparing students to apply their knowledge in the real world.

Our rigorous curriculum is built around learning for transfer, meaning students are challenged not only to learn but to use what they’ve learned in new and meaningful ways. Across all grade levels and subjects, students engage with complex ideas, solve real-world problems, and demonstrate their growth through authentic performance tasks.

At the same time, we offer a comprehensive education. CFSD students explore visual and performing arts, gain fluency in world languages, build hands-on skills in robotics and engineering, and grow through physical education, career and technical education (CTE) pathways, and much more. Whether it’s in a lab, on a stage, in a makerspace, or on a playing field, students have countless opportunities to discover and develop their passions.

To guide this work, we’ve established clear Transfer Goals—long-term outcomes that define what students should be able to do with their learning beyond the classroom. These goals help ensure that CFSD graduates are not only well-educated, but also ready to lead, contribute, and succeed in college, career, and life.

At CFSD, rigorous academics aren't just about what students know—but what they can do with what they know.

CFSD Disciplinary Transfer Goals (PDF)  Text Only Version (PDF)

CFSD DLP Transfer Goals (PDF) Text Only Version (PDF)

To support the development of future-ready learners, CFSD emphasizes six essential Deep Learning Proficiencies: Citizenship, Communication, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Collaboration, Creativity and Innovation, and Systems Thinking. These skills are embedded across all subject areas and grade levels, ensuring students grow not only academically, but also as thoughtful, capable individuals.

To guide instruction and track growth, CFSD has developed detailed rubrics for each proficiency—tailored for grades K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. These rubrics outline clear performance indicators and provide a shared language for students and teachers to discuss progress. With this common framework, we help students understand where they are in their learning and what steps they can take to grow—building a strong continuum of skill development from elementary school through high school graduation.

Deep Learning Proficiencies (PDF)

Citizenship (PDF)

Creativity and Innovation (PDF)

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (PDF)

Communication (PDF)

Collaboration (PDF)

Systems Thinking (PDF)

Subject Areas

Career and Technical Education (High School)

Career and Technical Education (CTE) engages students and prepares them with the academic and technical skills they need for fulfilling careers in vital, in-demand industries and occupations. Foundational to CTE are rigorous program technical standards developed by business and industry. In addition, CTE prepares learners for the world of work through professional skills standards and by making academic content accessible to students in hands-on, authentic contexts. Students also have the opportunity to participate in career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) outside of the classroom where they can continue to grow and develop their skills and compete in their selected program(s).

The Catalina Foothills School District (CFSD) offers a robust selection of educational experiences within ten (10) CTE program programs/pathways. Students have the opportunity to earn industry recognized certifications and dual enrollment credits (applicable courses only) through our CTE pathways. The following CTE programs/pathways are available at Catalina Foothills High School (CFHS):

  • Bioscience
  • Business Management
  • Computer Programming
  • Digital Photography
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Engineering
  • Film & Television
  • Graphic Design
  • Sports Medicine
  • Technical Theatre

Learn more about CFSD's Career and Technical Education programs/pathways.

CFSD is a member of the Pima Joint Technical Education District (JTED). In conjunction with business and industry, JTED provides Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs for students that focus upon both the educational and employment needs of Pima County. CTE/JTED courses provide access to state-of-the art equipment and training programs in a variety of career pathways, offer articulated college-level credit (applicable courses only), offer the opportunity for industry certifications, and the opportunity to work at an advanced level in a variety of career areas. CFHS Students interested in off-site JTED courses should see the CFHS CTE/JTED counselor for registration information. These courses are free to CFHS students and credits earned will be noted on the CFHS transcript. Info at Pima JTED Programs.

Grounded in industry-developed standards, CTE equips students with the technical and professional skills they need to thrive. Many students also participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), where they take on leadership roles, compete, and collaborate beyond the classroom.

📽️ Watch the video below to see how CTE students at CFHS are leading, learning, and making an impact.
👉 Leaders in the Making: The CTE Experience at CFHS