The Practical Arts Program of South Western High School encompasses classes in Safety Education, Diversified Occupations, Technology Education, and Home Economics. The Practical Arts Program gives students opportunities to develop and improve manipulative skills. It is designed to teach students responsibility, provide experiences in decision making, enhance their self-esteem, improve their communication skills, and improve their ability to relate to others.
Students are given an opportunity to plan, design, organize, and then make an item of basic use. They are also given an opportunity to work together in groups and learn cooperation. Students will gain self-confidence through project skill mastery and through successful completion of the project.
Teachers in this program are able to work individually and informally in guiding skill mastery and personal maturity of students. Teachers also encourage creativity and open-mindedness when considering project options and various skill level alternatives. Practical Arts teachers demonstrate skills, discuss directions, present factual knowledge, coordinate resources, and manage facilities and equipment.
Students need to be trained in practical skills to insure the survival of a culture. A Practical Arts Program is useful to society from an applicational and vocational training standpoint, as well as providing therapeutic and recreational benefits.