Report on High School Career and Technical Education Released

The Education Policy and Leadership Center (EPLC) recently released a report, “High School Career and Technical Education (CTE): Serving Pennsylvania’s Student and Workforce Needs.” Team PA’s Director of Education, Abby Smith, served on a 30-member Study Group with representatives from a variety of perspectives, including regional K-12 education, postsecondary education, employers, organized labor, workforce development, and economic development. The group served in an advisory capacity to identify significant CTE issues, highlight exemplary programs, and provide concrete recommendations – all of which are cited in the report.

Initiated in 2014, the Study Group first held a number of meetings and then participated in site visits across the state. Most of the recommendations are aimed at state level leadership in state agencies, the legislature, and state organizations, though some recommendations are directed at local school and district leaders.

Overall, EPLC’s report is highlighting the need for a major shift in infrastructure to better support CTE programs, which in turn better meets the needs of Pennsylvania’s businesses. Many of the programs of study offered at CTE schools lead to jobs with family-sustaining wages while simultaneously addressing shortages in key sectors of business and industry. As noted in the report, “The observations and recommendations we offer are rooted in a belief that CTE is more vital than ever before for Pennsylvania’s students, employers, workforce and, subsequently, for the Commonwealth’s economic and community health.”

Click here to read the full report.