The Trend toward Career Technical Education
Reporter Darren Svan set out to investigate how new investments in secondary career technical education programs are shaping the direction of students preparing for post-graduation careers or technical colleges.
Idaho spent an unprecedented amount of money in 2024 to expand CTE programs, build new facilities and provide students with the latest equipment. Darren talked to industry partners, school leaders, CTE teachers, students and recent graduates. Education leaders, lawmakers and parents want to know if the money is having an impact.
Modern CTE facilities will boost prospects in rural Idaho
In New Plymouth, some students stay in school just to weld in the high school’s career technical education agriculture program.
What are taxpayers getting for their CTE investments?
Measuring the success of secondary career technical education programs elicits varying conclusions depending on who you ask. Educators, policymakers and parents have different ideas.
Wanted: Professionals and retirees to teach high school CTE courses
Schools must attract converts from industry with job experience to lead CTE programs that guide teenagers directly into the workplace.
Industry partnerships shape employment opportunities for high school graduates
There are hundreds of Idaho professionals helping high schools maintain cutting-edge programs with the most up-to-date industry equipment. Both sides benefit from this collaboration.
State leaders push millions toward meeting workforce demands and student interests
The number of Industry trade jobs is growing every year. And teens are interested in learning those skills in high school.