Honors Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to enroll in the Honors level course of their CTE (technical) program. The Honors course is for 12th grade students who have demonstrated a high level of interest and achievement in their program and who aspire to an advanced level of learning. The course is challenging, more demanding, provides multiple opportunities for students to take greater responsibility for their learning, and has requirements beyond those of the standard CTE courses within their program. Students in the Honors course will be exposed to individualized industry-related advanced work, rigorous study of CTE subject matter with embedded academic content, and practical application of knowledge and skills to work-based situations. Students must meet the required prerequisites and submit a completed Academic Teacher Recommendation form during their 11th grade year to be considered for the Honors level course.

The National Technical Honor Society recognizes outstanding career and technical students. The organization rewards achievement and encourages scholastic excellence. Induction is not transferable from one year to the next. Each year, students must go through the selection process. This organizations cultivates a stronger image for career and technical education.

Qualifications are based on the previous school year.  Requirements are as follows:

Grade of A in the technical program 

B+ average in academics

Less than 10 absences

0 discipline referrals

Upon approval, students who meet these qualifications submit the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) application, complete a written essay, pay the membership fee, and complete 20 hours of community service by April 1st of the school year. 

North Montco Technical Career Center’s Program for Youth Advancement through Applied Practice (PYA²P) is a unique honors opportunity for 11^th and 12^th grade students.  This program combines work-based learning, technical skill development, and integrated academic classes with an option for dual college credits at Montgomery County Community College.  PYA²P students attend NMTCC full time and are engaged in holistic learning focused on leadership and entrepreneurship, a focus deemed critical by our business and industry partners.  Regardless of the student’s career objective, students will obtain the academic and technical skills needed to propel them into success at any business or work setting.  Please note, as an honors option and supplemental NMTCC program, students must be highly motivated, recommended by their technical instructor, and meet all application dates and program requirements.

About PYA²P

•    Junior/Senior Program: Available to select 11th and 12th grade students who have demonstrated strong work ethics and a deep commitment to their career goal through task completion and skill development in their NMTCC program.
•    Proven Success For Over 30 Years: Graduates become community leaders.
•    Real-World Classroom: By partnering with local businesses, the workplace becomes the classroom.
•    Traditional Graduation: Students receive their diploma from their high school and their technical career portfolio from NMTCC.

Why Apply to PYA²P?

•    Jump-Start Your Career: Gain valuable work experience through a Co-Op work placement.
•    Personalized Learning: Enjoy smaller academic class sizes for focused attention.
•    Practical Learning: Utilize the workplace and NMTCC as a dynamic learning environment.
•    Dual Enrollment Opportunity: Access dual enrollment opportunities with MCCC.
•    Stay Connected: Maintain a connection with your high school and participate in extracurricular activities.
•    Smooth Transition: Initiate a smooth transition into an adult apprenticeship, certificate program, or post-secondary education.

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Admission Criteria:
By meeting these requirements, students will not only secure a place in the PYA²P program but also thrive in an environment that nurtures both academic and career success.

•    Technical Program Teacher Recommendation: Students must receive a recommendation from their technical program teacher, having demonstrated their potential and dedication toward task completion of their program of study.
•    Application and Interview: Complete and submit the application, professional, program/trade-related resume, and participate in an interview with NMTCC staff. This step helps us understand the student’s aspirations and commitment to the program.
•    Academic Excellence: Maintain good grades, attendance, and a positive disciplinary record. This ensures students are focused on both academics and their future.
•    Keystone Exams: These should be taken before 11th grade, demonstrating the student’s proficiency in essential academic subjects.
•    Work Placement: Secure a program-related, NMTCC approved work placement by September 1.

Retention Criteria:

•    NOCTI: Score competent or advanced on the NOCTI pre-test, showcasing the students’ readiness for real-world challenges in their chosen career field.
•    Continued Recommendations: Maintain recommendations from the technical teacher, academic teachers, and co-op employer.
•    Academic Performance: Achieve a grade of “B” or better in all classes, both academic and technical program. This dual focus ensures a well-rounded education.
•    Adherence to Policies: Follow all NMTCC and PYA²P policies, creating a conducive learning environment for students and their peers.
•    Work Placement Continuation: Continue the NMTCC-approved work placement, allowing students to gain practical experience in their chosen field.
•    Daily Work Logs: Complete daily work logs which provide a comprehensive overview of the student’s learning and professional experiences.

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11th Grade Weekly Schedule

•    Monday and Tuesday: Immerse yourself in the real world with a full-day Co-Op experience in your technical field.
(Cosmetology students can enhance their skills at the Salon at North Montco to fulfill State Board of Cosmetology Hours requirements.)
•    Wednesday to Friday: Engage in a comprehensive learning experience at NMTCC dedicating the day to academic and technical program classes.

12th Grade Weekly Schedule

• Monday and Tuesday: Engage in a comprehensive learning experience at NMTCC dedicating the day to academic and technical program classes.
• Wednesday to Friday: Immerse yourself in the real world with a full-day Co-Op experience in your technical field. (Cosmetology students can enhance their skills at the Salon at North Montco to fulfill State Board of Cosmetology Hours requirements.)

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For more information contact:

215 - 368- 1177

Tammy Albanesius, Dean of Students, x177

Ed Trbuza, Co-Op Coordinator, x130