Students at CityLab High School are designing digital restaurants and cultivating hydroponic gardens as part of Dallas ISD’s Career and Technical Education programs. The specialized pathways in architecture and environmental systems offer hands-on experience that bridges classroom learning with real-world applications.
These programs provide students with practical skills and opportunities for career exploration before graduation. The approach reflects a growing trend in education that emphasizes workforce readiness alongside traditional academics.
“CityLab has taught me how to manage time efficiently, complete tasks in an orderly manner, and work with people on the completion of a singular, large task,” said Bailey H., an environmental systems student. “This is a welcoming community with an interesting focus on things that are extremely applicable to real life.”
In the architecture pathway, students master professional design software while creating detailed building plans. Junior Aliza G. followed her sister’s footsteps into the program.
“Right now, we’re building our own restaurant,” Aliza said. “I picked a restaurant with an outside dining room and a bar area, and I got to design it all, measurements, layout, and the ocean view.”
Architecture teacher Alex Knesnick guides students through Revit design software. They create floor plans and 3D renderings of community spaces, restaurants, and boutiques.
Jahri W. joined the architecture program at her mother’s suggestion. The pathway offered a structured outlet for her artistic talents.
“I find it really fun,” she said. “Overall, CityLab is a good school, and it’s perfect for somebody who doesn’t enjoy large spaces because this school is a little smaller than regular schools.”
The environmental systems lab glows purple from specialized grow lamps. Students maintain hydroponic systems and monitor pH levels for various crops under the supervision of teacher Allison Miller.
Senior Bailey discovered a family connection through the agricultural program. “It’s like a familial green thumb that runs in my family,” Bailey explained.
“The curriculum is genuinely informative and well-paced,” Bailey continued. “Students learn about livestock, energy, and natural resources, and later get hands-on experience maintaining motors, managing chemicals, and growing plants in unique conditions.”
The hydroponics component particularly captures Bailey’s interest. “It’s not just sitting at a desk, it’s learning by doing,” Bailey noted.
Miller emphasizes the program’s broader impact on student self-sufficiency. Food security remains a critical issue in urban environments.
“The biggest thing they take away is how to sustain themselves,” Miller said. “Especially in areas like Dallas, where we’re technically in a food desert, learning how to grow and nourish your own food is a powerful skill.”
Even small-scale projects carry significant lessons. “Even small projects, like growing microgreens, teach them how to support themselves and their communities,” Miller added.
Dallas ISD will showcase Career Institute opportunities at Discover Dallas ISD. The event takes place Saturday, November 1, at Fair Park’s Automobile Building.