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BoardWise

by Merrill Grant, Monika Moulin and Sepideh Yeoh
Boardwise is a forum for board members and superintendents across the state to share questions about governance and board–superintendent relations. Send your questions to boardwise@csba.org. Have governance team questions that require personal attention? Reach out to CSBA for a customized Governance Consulting Workshop with our experts at gcs@csba.org

Shifting mindsets

The benefits of well-structured CTE pathways

I

n the dynamic landscape of education, where the journey from classroom to career is increasingly intertwined, career technical education (CTE) pathways are beacons of experiential learning.

instructor teaching two students robotics
From technology and cybersecurity to engineering and health care, these pathways provide hands-on training, equipping students with the technical skills and industry credentials essential for success in their chosen fields.

They offer students a curriculum and a roadmap to navigate the complexities of modern-day industries. For governance team members, understanding and supporting the significance of well-structured CTE pathways is paramount in shaping the educational landscape of tomorrow.

In recent years, California has witnessed a significant investment, exceeding $3 billion, in bolstering CTE programs across its high schools. This is not just a financial commitment; it’s an investment in our students’ future and our communities’ prosperity. As enrollment in CTE pathways continues to climb, it underscores the growing recognition of its importance in preparing students for the diverse careers awaiting them.

At the heart of CTE pathways lies a fundamental shift in educational philosophy. Unlike traditional education, which often takes a broad approach, CTE pathways offer specialized training aligned with specific career clusters. From technology and cybersecurity to engineering and health care, these pathways provide hands-on training, equipping students with the technical skills and industry credentials essential for success in their chosen fields.

Moreover, CTE pathways serve as bridges to higher education and the workforce. Students can earn college credits through dual enrollment programs while still in high school, paving the way for smoother transitions to technical schools, community colleges and universities. This seamless progression from education to employment is crucial in addressing the evolving demands of the job market and ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

However, the journey doesn’t end with the establishment of CTE pathways. It requires a concerted effort from board members to provide the necessary support and resources for these programs to thrive. As stewards of education, boards of education play a pivotal role in creating an environment conducive to student success. This involves advocating for adequate funding and fostering partnerships with community colleges, industry stakeholders and other educational institutions.

Key questions for board members to consider when funding CTE programs include:

  • How can we ensure equitable access to CTE pathways for all students, regardless of their background or location?
  • Can external funding sources, such as grants and scholarships, be used to supplement district resources?
  • How can we align CTE pathways with local workforce needs to maximize employment opportunities for our graduates?
  • What measures are in place to evaluate the effectiveness of CTE programs and track student outcomes beyond high school?
students wearing safety goggle looking at something pointed out by the instructor

Furthermore, school boards must recognize the importance of experiential learning in CTE pathways. It’s not enough to provide theoretical knowledge; students must have opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings. Internships, fieldwork and paid work experience are invaluable components of the CTE experience, bridging the gap between classroom instruction and workplace realities.

To facilitate these connections, local educational agencies should allocate resources toward establishing partnerships and coordinating student worksite experiences. Dedicated teams, separate from counseling staff, can focus on cultivating these relationships and ensuring students access meaningful opportunities for skill development and career exploration.

In essence, supporting CTE pathways is not just about investing in educational programs; it’s about investing in the future of our students and the prosperity of our communities. By embracing a mindset shift towards well-structured CTE pathways and providing unwavering support, trustees can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where every student can thrive in their chosen career path.

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