Careers Come Into Focus

Some states are placing their bets on blending academics with high school classes related to the world of work.

By Michele McNeil

Some policymakers and school leaders, worried about preparing students for a competitive workforce, are driving education reforms with an emphasis on career and technical education.

Unlike the “vocational education” of years past, which was designed largely for students deemed not likely to attend college, the new emphasis is on blurring the traditional boundaries between academic coursework and classes related to the world of work. Indeed, the goal is to prepare students who have a choice of either going to college or entering the workforce right after high school.

Well-designed career and technical programs, supporters say, also address students’ persistent view that their academic coursework lacks relevance and meaning, and so help keep them in school...