Rethinking Career and Technical Education – Six core qualities

As the economy rapidly shifts toward automation, there is growing consensus that while new jobs will be created, change is the new normal. Youth need training in soft skills alongside preparation for lifetime learning. Systemic change, not minor improvements, will be necessary.

States, districts, and schools are adjusting to the aspirations of “new CTE”—as many are calling this rethinking of career and technical education—and searching for examples of what this can look like. CRPE has identified 32 programs around the country that represent the variety of efforts being used to reinvent CTE. We profile district schools, charter schools, after-school programs, and a tuition-free independent school. Some started in the early 1900s, others opened their doors just a few years ago. The range of models provides a glimpse into the diverse ways educators across the country are attempting to reinvent career pathways.

Six core qualities from this table define the aspirations of new CTE:
1. Connect students to in-demand, living-wage careers
2. Prepare students for post-secondary success
3. Deliver a relevant learning experience
4. Focus on equity
5. Use community resources
6. Develop responsive, sustainable programs

Chosen excerpts by Job Market Monitor. Read the whole story at Schools Lead the Way but the System Must Change: Rethinking Career and Technical Education | Center on Reinventing Public Education