The history of career technical education (CTE) traces its origins to post-Civil War America, with the opening of the St. Louis Manual Training School in 1879 under the umbrella of Washington University. The school grew out of the non-traditional thinking of educator Calvin Milton Woodward, who believed that the traditional school model would struggle to... Continue Reading →
One of the best investments in any high school is in career and technical education (CTE) programs. Such pathways pay dividends for many critical factors, such as graduation rate and academic success. But parents and students who already expect good grades and a high school diploma might be surprised to learn that there are other... Continue Reading →
Despite movements to bring career education more to the forefront and promote the significant opportunities that are available to skilled laborers, the perception of career and technical education (CTE) is, unfortunately, that it’s for students who can’t make it to college. A recent survey showed that 57% of adults say that CTE is for students... Continue Reading →
The way that we measure student success has evolved over the past two decades. Before the 2001 reauthorization of ESEA, achievement gaps and low graduation rates among subgroups—primarily, low SES and minority students—could be hidden by aggregating data. The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act held schools accountable by requiring the disaggregation of graduation rates... Continue Reading →
Career planning and development for students is a bit like building with Legos. You have a vision in mind of the goal: a glorious Harry Potter castle, a shiny BatMobile, or something made entirely from scratch. One brick at a time, the structure takes shape—but planning is required, the right “bricks” are needed, guidance is... Continue Reading →
The global COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions in education. Previously, graduation rates nationwide were steadily climbing, and while 2020 saw a decline of on-time high school graduations in several states, other states, including New York, Florida, and Utah, saw continued progress. While this is positive news, students need more than a diploma. They need a... Continue Reading →
Albert Einstein said, “The definition of genius is taking the complex and making it simple.” Implementing a career development plan for students throughout a district might sound simple but can be quite complex. The larger the school district, the more complicated it can be, but with the right tools, simplicity in planning for teachers, counselors,... Continue Reading →
A Team Approach to Supporting Students with Making Career and Academic Choices In a school, the role of career advisor cannot fall to just the counselor—it must be a team effort. Schools that commit to the post-secondary success of every student understand this. The counselor’s goal of supporting students with making career and academic choices... Continue Reading →
Much is expected of career counselors in today’s secondary school environment, but not all their resources are geared toward helping students find a path to success. Counselors often play a role in resolving student wellbeing and family issues. With ratios as overwhelming as 479 students to every counselor, it's challenging to find the time to... Continue Reading →
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