For those with a background in education, the adage “not everyone is going to go to college” likely rings true. This assertion holds weight for a myriad of reasons spanning from financial constraints to individual aspirations and the availability of opportunities.
Over the course of the last two to three decades, the landscape of public education has undergone a transformative shift. It has transitioned from an exclusive emphasis on preparing students for college to a more holistic approach that recognizes the significance of equipping students for both college and careers.
A paradigm that once singularly prioritized college readiness has matured into a nuanced perspective that endorses the viability of either trajectory for students.
A pivotal aspect of this evolution is the rise of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Although engaging in such programs may augment a student’s course load, a substantial number of college-bound students now graduate high school with valuable CTE certifications.
These certifications often provide students the means to secure employment that can contribute financially to their college endeavors, enabling them to delve further into their chosen field of study.
Learn about essential skills that students should learn for their post-high school studies.
The Core of CTE Programs
CTE programs are designed to teach students tangible skills that readily translate to the workforce. Upon completion, a student can promptly transition from high school to employment, armed with a comprehensive certification or training obtained through a career and technical program or class.
The appeal of CTE programs lies in their diversity. In Texas alone, a robust selection of 12 distinct board programs of study is available. These encompass fields ranging from agriculture and business to education and health science.
By enabling students to choose a pathway that resonates with their inclinations, CTE programs foster a sense of empowerment and purpose.
Guiding Students Through CTE Exploration
Embarking on the journey of CTE exploration often commences at the middle school level in many states. Students participate in interest surveys and personality assessments to align their inclinations with potential career options.
While it is acknowledged that preferences may evolve from the time students enter seventh grade to when they reach tenth grade, initiating this process early is crucial, given that many CTE programs entail a multi-year commitment.
Furthermore, CTE programs often reach out to students during freshman orientation events, providing information through posters and presentations.
These occasions serve as opportunities to showcase potential income levels associated with particular professions, outline scholarship options available within their chosen pathway, and introduce students to competitions relevant to their interests.
Guidance counselors play a pivotal role in facilitating a student’s engagement with CTE programs. Through collaborative efforts, counselors assist students in crafting a comprehensive plan that encompasses their chosen CTE courses, dovetailing seamlessly with their academic path toward graduation.
Additionally, counselors leverage their expertise to evaluate a student’s performance and personality traits, aligning them with a trajectory that amalgamates their interests and potential for success.
By exposing students to a plethora of options, aligning these options with their individual predilections, and expertly guiding them along the path of success.
