This fall, Dallas High School is offering its students a head start in the professional world with an innovative after-school training program in Real Estate and Insurance Licensure. Ten students are participating in this unique opportunity, which meets every Tuesday and Thursday under the guidance of Career and Technical Education coordinator Bill Masei. The program prepares students to sit for the state licensing exams as soon as they graduate and turn 18.
Combining in-person and online learning, the course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter these competitive fields right out of high school. Supported by a local Farmers Insurance grant and additional CTE community donations, this initiative underscores the power of partnerships between education and local industries in shaping the futures of young professionals.
“We are excited to provide this opportunity to students who wish to pursue careers in real estate and insurance sales,” Masei said. “Dallas High School is grateful for our CTE supporters and local industry mentors who will be involved with students throughout their training.”
The curriculum, designed to meet state requirements, includes online modules, videos, lectures and guest presentations from industry professionals. The students’ progress is monitored weekly, ensuring they meet the mandatory 150 hours of instruction required for state licensure. Once they graduate and turn 18, these students will be eligible to take the state licensing exam and step into the workforce fully prepared.
Sarah Owre, a local realtor with Dallas HomeSmart Realty, praised the program’s forward-thinking approach.
“This is such a great opportunity for high schoolers. Had this been available to seniors when I was in school, it would have jump started my career much earlier. The ability to meet with industry professionals to help with career guidance can be really impactful,” Owre said.
Her sentiment highlights the real-world impact programs like this can have on students who may not be pursuing traditional post-secondary paths but are eager to jumpstart a career in high-demand industries.
This after-school training program is another example of Dallas High School’s commitment to expanding opportunities for its students. Whether through college-preparatory courses or career and technical training, the school continually strives to meet the diverse needs of its student body, ensuring every graduate is ready for college, career, or community involvement.
For more information about this program or other CTE offerings, contact Bill Masei at [email protected].
