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Five Best Practices for Career and Technical Education

The importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in today's job market cannot be understated. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, the need for educational programs that equip students with relevant skills and experiences is more critical than ever. When effectively designed, CTE programs not only prepare students for their first jobs but also provide them with the tools to succeed in their future careers. Based on recent findings and the expertise from The Possible Zone's initiatives at Lawrence High School (LHS) in Boston, here are five best practices to enhance CTE offerings.

1. Collaborate with Industry Stakeholders

A transformative approach to CTE involves actively engaging with industry professionals in curriculum development. By collaborating with nurses, technicians, and other experts, educational programs can ensure that students are exposed to real-world challenges and current industry standards. This cooperation not only fosters practical learning experiences but also establishes trust between educational institutions and employers. At LHS, partnerships with local hospitals have led to the creation of CTE courses that reflect authentic industry practices, allowing students to learn in an environment that closely resembles their future workplaces.

2. Embrace Project-Based Learning

To keep students engaged, CTE programs should prioritize project-based learning over traditional lectures. Innovative classrooms that resemble labs or studios facilitate hands-on, collaborative learning experiences. By immersing students in complex projects that mimic real jobs, they hone their technical skills while developing essential soft skills such as teamwork and communication. This dynamic approach to learning accelerates skill acquisition and prepares students for challenges they will face in the workforce.

3. Highlight and Assess Durable Skills

Skills like adaptability and teamwork are crucial in today's workforce, yet they are often overlooked. Effective CTE programs make these durable skills explicit, teaching, practicing, and assessing them alongside technical knowledge. This dual focus enables students at LHS to reflect on their progress and understand how their capabilities can transfer across various roles and industries. By documenting their growth through drafts and work samples, students gain a sense of ownership over their learning journey.

4. Utilize Technology Responsibly

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies should enhance, not replace, critical thinking and creativity in CTE programs. Students must learn to use these tools responsibly while continuing to practice human-centric skills. For example, LHS has introduced a Navigator App aimed at personalizing and gamifying the educational experience. This application serves as a support system for students, helping them track their progress and discover new opportunities, ultimately deepening their learning.

5. Create Pathways for Credential Advancement

Finally, successful CTE programs align high school coursework with postsecondary education and industry credentials. By stacking credentials, students see a clear pathway to career advancement rather than feeling confined to a single job. At Lawrence High School, students in the healthcare CTE course can earn vital certifications, such as OSHA safety and CPR-First Aid. These credentials not only help students step confidently into entry-level positions but also lay the groundwork for future opportunities and career mobility.

When implemented effectively, these practices can transform CTE into a vital connection between education, industry, and community. As CTE Month shines a light on the significance of these educational pathways, it is imperative to reflect on how they can equip young individuals not only to enter the workforce but also to shape it in meaningful ways.

Author: Meg Riordan, Ph.D., Chief Learning Officer at The Possible Zone

The Possible Zone is dedicated to empowering youth through experiential development and skill-building initiatives that enhance readiness for post-secondary education and careers.