The Fashion, Art, and Branding program (FAB Lab) offers an immersive CTE (Career Technical Education) learning experience that goes beyond the classroom. Students gain essential knowledge such as basic sewing skills & garment construction; understanding art movements; digital and visual merchandising; event planning and marketing; and the fundamentals of design. FAB Lab graduates have gone on to attend the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FiDM), Oregon State University Apparel Design Program at the College of Business, and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
FAB Lab Course Descriptions
This program features an alternating A Year and B Year curriculum; Juniors and Seniors learn together and complete all listed courses over two years.
A Year
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First-year students learn how to operate a sewing machine, maintain equipment, and explore various stitch types and hand sewing techniques. First semester projects include creating a tote bag, zipper pouch, and a project of their choice. In the second semester, students delve into pattern work, constructing garments such as pajama pants, t-shirts, and an apron.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
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First-year students build the foundation of their artistic practice while learning essential organizational techniques and tool maintenance. They explore influential artists, gain historical insights into the creative process, and focus on independent projects that mimic real-world artistic experiences. Students develop discipline, set schedules, gather materials, and acquire skills tailored to their goals, fostering creativity and preparing for future creative careers.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
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In this survey course, students explore the evolution of style and its ties to art movements, color theory, and cultural identity. Through lectures and hands-on projects like designing paper ruffs and dresses, they study influential designers and historical fashion eras.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
B Year
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Second-year students take skills to the next level. In the first semester, students focus on advanced garment construction techniques, learning how to add fasteners and notions, and use Juki industrial machines and sergers. In the second semester, students design and construct their own fashion collections, honing their design vision and craftsmanship while preparing for a final showcase.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
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Second-year students refine their artistic practice while taking on mentorship and leadership roles. In addition to independent project work, FAB 2 students guide and support FAB 1 students during studio hours, sharing insights and fostering collaboration. This advanced course emphasizes leadership development alongside continued artistic growth, preparing students for professional environments where both creativity and teamwork are essential.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
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This course covers design fundamentals such as balance, rhythm, and harmony while helping students build digital skills and media literacy to create a professional portfolio and branding kit. Through hands-on projects and presentations, they gain the confidence and tools to articulate their ideas to audiences and establish a clear brand identity.
1 High School CTE Elective Credit
Meet the Team
I began my teaching career at the college level, but after teaching just one class at CAL, I realized how much I wanted to work with young people. Over the past 12 years, I’ve gotten to know hundreds of juniors and seniors. I’ve seen them graduate, go on to college, and begin their careers and families. As an educator, I value building relationships and strong communities of curious learners.
Originally, I studied English, getting both a B.A. and M.A. I went on to get an M.A. in Teaching. As the program director for FAB Lab, I have obtained a CTE endorsement in Performing Arts. I bring my passion for creativity, art, aesthetics and symbolism to the program and enjoy watching students emerge as confident designers.