High school students want to gain real world experience in school. By enrolling in high school career and technical (CTE) education programs, students learn real-world skills and graduate ready to earn a good living. In fact, students who concentrate in CTE classes are more likely to graduate and complete post-secondary programs on time than their high school peers.
More than 230 high schools offer dozens of CTE programs, but less than 8% of Pennsylvania’s high school students have the option to enroll in these practical programs. More state funding to modernize the equipment and expand course offerings, along with reforms to attract and retain teachers, are important next steps to expand opportunities so students will graduate with 21st century skills.
Children First is working to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of more students tapping into this proven high school option. Our advocacy contributed to the state increasing support for these programs by tens of millions of dollars.
CTE POLICY PRIORITIES
- Prepare at least 25,000 high school graduates for real world jobs by tripling access to career-related learning in Pennsylvania with $215 million in new career and technical education (CTE) funds.
- Develop a robust career pathway system that substantially increases the share of high school students who graduate with career-related credentials, earn college credits, or complete an apprenticeship.
- Invest in modern materials and equipment that prepare students for today’s industry standards, while expanding course enrollment to end student waitlists.
- Eliminate unnecessary and costly certification policies that prevent CTE teacher recruitment.
- Streamline existing data collection practices and ensure that stakeholders have access to the data they need.
RESOURCES : CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION
ALL RESOURCES