Central Academy of Technology and Arts

Central Academy of Technology and Arts (CATA) is a public high school located in Monroe, North Carolina, and also Union County's first magnet high school. Unlike regular public high schools, students at Central Academy have the opportunity to have a major course of study in an academy of their choice that will give them a head start towards their future careers in life. The academies include Information Systems (software, hardware, and cybersecurity), Medical Sciences, Performing Arts (theater, dance, and music production and recording arts), Pre-Engineering, and Transportation Systems. Teacher Preparation was eliminated before the 2015–2016 school year.

CATA is a part of Union County Public Schools, on Brewer Drive. The school was originally a career center, but now is a part of the public school system. The school was founded as a high school for grades 9–12 in 2006, with the first graduating class in 2009.

Notable Alumni:

Kelsey "Kelso" Millett - Wigmaker and Cosmotologist for T.V., Movies, and Media in Hollywood California