The current Design and Visual Communications Frameworks for CTE includes examining the history of typography in Standard 2 and 3H, Fundamentals of Design. These standards allow students to understand the scholars of the typographic canon from a limited view. Missing are design scholars who have influenced the history of typography. In addition, Standards 2 and 3H do not include those who are missing or erased from design history, education, and practice. Knowing this demands the need for the CTE education community to identify the gaps and add missing authors long unrepresented in art and design schools and graphic design programs. In this panel, two longtime high school, college, and teacher educators levels will share how Dr. Cheryl Miller's course, Decolonizing Graphic Design, A Black Perspective is transforming their practice. Cheryl provides user-friendly tactical instruments for educators and administrators of schools to examine one's own relationship to their own ancestral history while adding to the history we all teach.
In this session, I will share my journey of transforming a traditional Graphic Design curriculum into a full-fledged Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at Salem High School. Beginning with Graphic Design 1 and 2, I expanded the program to incorporate design theory, Adobe certification, Konica Minolta equipment training, large-format printing, lamination, dye sublimation, and an eCommerce platform for real-world order processing.
Attendees will gain insight into the step-by-step process of developing a high-quality, industry-aligned CTE program, including:
-Securing Funding & Resources – Writing and obtaining grants to upgrade Adobe software, Mac lab computers, and acquire professional printing equipment. -Industry Collaboration – Partnering with Konica Minolta and local businesses to equip students with hands-on skills. -Building an eCommerce Platform – A year-long development process with PageDNA to create "Witches’ Ink," a student-run online store that integrates order management and billing. -Curriculum Development – Writing coursework aligned with Massachusetts Visual Communication and Graphic Output standards, proactively adapting to evolving state standards. -Hands-on Learning & Equipment Training – Researching, self-training, and establishing professional workflows, including silk screening with support from local businesses.
This session will provide educators with a roadmap for expanding their own CTE programs, leveraging industry partnerships, and integrating real-world applications to prepare students for careers in graphic design and print production.
Target Audience: CTE educators, administrators, and program directors looking to enhance or develop a Graphic Design & Visual Communication program with strong industry connections and hands-on learning.
Session Format: Presentation with Q&A, featuring real-world examples, curriculum insights, and a discussion on best practices for implementing similar programs in other schools.
