In the inaugural edition of its new education-focused segment, entitled “Making the Grade,” PBS NewsHour aired a story that examined the growing recognition of the value of CTE across the country and its path forward.
The story began by visiting Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School, near Boston, MA. There, students can enroll in immersive CTE programs that span throughout their secondary school experience, including culinary arts, skilled trades and automotive technology. In addition to requiring high-level academics for all students, the programs strive to incorporate what they refer to as “live work.” Principal David Wheeler says of these experiences that, “Cosmetology takes clients. Construction, we have done complete renovations of buildings. We have done Web sites for people. We do printing. There is no better way to engage a student than they’re doing real, meaningful work.”
The school has encountered some hesitation from those who still hold outdated perceptions of CTE programs, including concerns about “tracking” specific demographics into technical classes. However, Wheeler noted that the school has produced results for all students. He stated during the program that, “When we do follow-up studies, generally speaking, we hit the 90 — high 90 percent range of students that are either in the work force, continue to be enrolled in college, or have gone into the military. The point is to get you to be a happy, productive citizen.”
ACTE works to promote public awareness of CTE and its promise for all students. To view the segment, click here, and click here to learn more about how you can work with the media in your community to build support for CTE!
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