ACTE Commends President Obama’s American Graduation Initiative for Community Colleges
ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Association for Career and Technical Education applauds President Obama’s new American Graduation Initiative announced today, which will help create innovative programs, renovate and rebuild schools, and create a virtual infrastructure of online courses. The Obama plan recognizes the important role that these institutions provide to educate and train students and adults for the high-demand jobs needed to keep the United States economically competitive.
“It’s refreshing to see President Obama acknowledge and emphasize the critical role that two-year colleges and training programs play with respect to building a pipeline of qualified workers,” said ACTE Executive Director Jan Bray. “It’s the first time in recent years that an American president has recognized the value of these institutions, and we hope that it includes technical colleges, career technical centers and all institutions that deliver postsecondary education and technical training.”
President Obama’s goal to push more students beyond high school is important since one-third of the fastest growing occupations will require an associate’s degree or a postsecondary vocational certificate. Equally important is ensuring fewer students drop out at the secondary level and receive the career education needed to direct them as they make postsecondary choices.
With a huge skill shortage on the horizon, it will be critical to inform students about career pathways, career guidance, and dual and concurrent enrollment. Research shows that career and technical education reduces dropout rates, engages students in the classroom, and teaches students the 21st Century Skills businesses are looking for in employees as referenced in the “Preparing the Workers of Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow” report commissioned by the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.
About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit education association dedicated to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. It provides advocacy, public awareness and access to information, professional development and tools that enable members to be successful and effective leaders. Founded in 1926, ACTE has more than 27,000 members including teachers, counselors and administrators at the middle school, high school and postsecondary levels. www.acteonline.org.
SOURCE Association for Career and Technical Education