Not all destined for college

Bakersfield Californian 1/16/07

State lawmakers are finally realizing that the "traditional" high school system does not work for all students.

Gov. Schwarzenegger's budget proposal includes $52 million to improve the quality of vocational courses, and increase teacher recruitment and training.

Although it may not be enough to make a complete turnaround in the number of students who graduate, it will help direct students in the right career direction.

Not all students are cutout for "traditional" school. Students should not be stuck in an education system that does not give them options. The present system is more focused on meeting educational benchmarks and preparing students for college.

Vocational training is the answer for many high school dropouts who feel they have no choices. Community colleges should benefit from the increased money to enhance technical education offerings in programs, such as nursing.

Career technical education, sometimes referred to as vocational education, will prepare students for jobs that need employees.

Game wardens, line men, power plant operators and engineers are just a few examples of jobs in California that are or will be experiencing worker shortages. With the extra money, schools should be able to match employment needs with course offerings.

Kern County schools should take full advantage of the funding that is emerging to beef up vocational education. An improved program will help students and local businesses meet their present and future needs.

The governor has scheduled a summit on career technical education in March. The summit promises to assist school districts in crafting improved vocational education programs and applying for bond money voters approved in November to help pay for these programs.

Proposition 1D allocated $500 million to construction shops and facilities needed for technical education.