Letter from the Principal

Friday marked the official end of the first nine-week grading period! October tends to be a busy time in schools (with PSAT and benchmark testing, first report cards, etc.), but it's also amazing to think about how much our students and staff have accomplished already this school year. From mastering new technical skills in our labs to collaborating on projects in the classroom, we're excited to see our students' growth each day through career and technical education.

As we move into the second nine weeks, I encourage everyone to keep that positive momentum going by continuing to show up and remaining engaged. Consistent attendance is key to student success, and we’re excited to begin our attendance recognitions during this next grading period. We’ll be celebrating students who maintain 90% or higher attendance, as well as those with improved attendance. This fall brings even more meaningful experiences—with hands-on projects, field trips, and two programs completing their Industry-Based Certifications before the semester ends. We want to ensure that all students take full advantage of every opportunity. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students learn, grow, and prepare for their futures.

Students of the Month

Congratulations to our first round of Clifton Students of the Month for the 2025-2026 school year! Each month, Clifton teachers choose one student out of all their sections to recognize for their leadership, dedication, growth, communication, etc.

Our Career Tech Programs

It's been a busy nine weeks. Learn more about what our students have accomplished in their Clifton programs!

Agricultural Technology (Welding)

First-year students in our welding program earned their OSHA 10-Hour safety certification, which is required for work on any job site. They have moved into the welding shop and are adjusting to the oxy-fuel torch, learning how to cut metal. Second-year students are preparing for the American Welding Society D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding certification by refreshing their skills in the shop. In between welds, our third-year students have been collaborating with local plumbers on the Plumb Perfect Dream Bathroom Challenge, presented by the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors of Texas (PHCC) and Construction Industry Education Foundation (CIEF). Second and third-year students also had the opportunity to learn about Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and participate in a field trip to Steel Day, hosted by Patriot Erectors.

Culinary Arts

First-year students started the year learning about safety and sanitation, ending the unit by earning their Food Handler's certification, which is required for any job working with food. After that, students tackled knife skills through a variety of labs: pico de gallo, veggie spring rolls, salads, bruschetta, and more (no vegetables were left uncut during this unit). Second and third-year students completed their cake decorating unit. They started by piping lines on practice sheets and graduated to stunning decorated cakes. From there, second-year students have begun testing recipes for the Travis County Youth Show: cakes, cookies, jams, jerky, pickles, mystery ingredient, etc. We can't wait to see how they turn out (maple bacon baklava anyone?). Meanwhile, third-year students have begun preparing for their Food Protection Manager certifications and are also taking time to stock community fridges to help fight food insecurity in our area.

Diagnostic & Therapeutic Services (Health Science)

First-year students began the year by exploring different career pathways and had the opportunity to hear from a Clinical Nurse Manager at CommUnityCare Clinic. Students are also learning about the importance of teamwork in the healthcare field. Second and third-year students are already focused on the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam they will take at the end of the year. They learned about the College of Healthcare Professionals (CHCP), which is one option after graduation. Several of our seniors were also selected to participate in the Nursing Academy hosted by the Texas A&M Health Science Center. Students enjoyed a full day of hands-on simulation labs and learned more about healthcare occupations.

Career Preparation

Students in Career Preparation have been focused on all things job application: finding available jobs, determining if a job is a good fit, completing job applications, following up with employers, and the importance of perseverance. Students also began their internships at Parson's House, DoubleTree Hotel, and Child Craft. After getting comfortable at different locations, students are working to build their problem-solving skills, take more initiative, and improve their workplace communication. Some of our students also participated in the Everfi Impact Summit, meeting with top professionals and learning about how finance will impact their futures. The event came with a very special announcement: a $5000 scholarship for one student to continue his education!