ACTE

SILVER SPRING, MD—Today, the White House released its Fiscal Year 2011 budget, which proposed level funding for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. Perkins is the largest source of federal funds for secondary schools and the primary source of federal funding for education programs that provide individuals with the knowledge and skills to compete in the workforce. The National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) understand tight budget constraints, but believe that a greater investment should be made in order to answer the nation’s most pressing need of rebuilding the workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), National Association of State Directors for Career and Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) and career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) are taking steps to educate the public about the role career and technical education (CTE) plays in educating and training the future workforce and the economic impact it has on local communities.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today announced the topic for the Cliff Weiss Memorial Essay contest, held in memory of former ACTE Senior Director of Communications Cliff Weiss (1951-2004). This year’s topic for secondary and postsecondary students is "How Is CTE an Investment in Your Future?”

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that it has selected five members to participate in the ACTE National Leadership Fellowship Program, which provides educators an opportunity to enhance their leadership skills and involvement in professional organizations. The program identifies, trains and motivates a cadre of leaders who will continue to advance efforts that support an educated, prepared, adaptable and competitive workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) last week held its Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo and announced today that 5,200 educators and exhibitors attended the event in Nashville, Tennessee, November 19-21, roughly a 20 percent increase over last year’s event. During the three-day Convention, ACTE released an adolescent-literacy Issue Brief, signed an MOU with the U.S. Army Accessions Command, announced the 2010 CTE MonthPublic Service Announcement (PSA) video and national award winners, and held more than 250 concurrent sessions and workshops that covered topics like data collection, career academies, incorporating technology into the curriculum, and legislative and policy issues affecting CTE.

NASHVILLE, TN—Representatives from the U.S. Army Accessions Command (USAAC) and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) this week signed an official memorandum of understanding (MOU) providing the cooperative framework to increase collaboration in supporting the nation’s young people and improving the educational experiences, postsecondary readiness and career and technical pathways for the nation’s high school students.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that students from Silsbee Independent School District (ISD) in Silsbee, Texas, won the 29-second Public Service Announcement (PSA) contest sponsored by ACTE. The students, Katie Eldredge and Hannah Read, developed a PSA called “The Future Is in Your Hands,” which will be used to market CTE Month during February 2010. ACTE unveiled the video during its opening General Session at ACTE’s Annual Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—A new Issue Brief by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), "Career and Technical Education’s Role in Adolescent Literacy," explains how career and technical education (CTE) can increase adolescent literacy engagement and achievement. CTE teachers are integrating content-area reading and writing strategies and a number of enrichment activities to help students gain and apply higher-level literacy skills, which will help students prepare to enter postsecondary education, training opportunities and the global economy.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces it has signed on to become an endorsing partner of the Data Quality Campaign (DQC), which is a national, collaborative effort to encourage and support state policymakers to improve the availability and use of high-quality education data to improve student achievement. ACTE will work with the DQC to support the use of longitudinal data to inform policy and practice and to improve student achievement.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) praises the Senate for confirming Brenda Dann-Messier as the assistant secretary of the Office of Vocational and Adult Education. Dann-Messier was nominated by President Obama in July.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—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.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—A new Issue Brief by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) titled “Career and Technical Education’s Role in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math” describes how career and technical education (CTE) can help meet the critical need of developing a skilled, professional STEM workforce to secure America’s economic future. CTE courses and programs strengthen students’ understanding of STEM content and attract students to STEM careers.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has added an interview with National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) CEO Byron V. Garrett to its Career Tech Talk podcast series, which features interviews with leaders and innovators in career and technical education (CTE). Garrett discusses PTA policy issues, the critical need for student involvement and the role of CTE in reducing the dropout rate and engaging students in education.

Alexandria, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that its 2008-2009 Outstanding Teacher in Community Service, Carol Dvorak, won one of five grand prize spots in HBO’s “Who’s Your No. 1 Lady?” contest.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is hosting its annual 29-second Video Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest to publicize CTE Month during February 2010. Secondary and postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) students in film and video production classes and other CTE courses are invited to submit video PSAs incorporating the 2010 CTE Month logo and theme, “CTE: Invest in Your Future.” Students can enter the contest as individuals or as a group. Deadline to enter is October 16, 2009.

Alexandria, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Grant Robertson of Houston, Texas has won the 2010 CTE Month Logo Design Contest. Robertson will receive a check for $250 and the logo will be used to promote the 2010 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month theme CTE: Invest in Your Future. ACTE received 280 entries for this year’s contest.

Increase Needed to Train Workforce, Stimulate Economy

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the White House unveiled its Fiscal Year 2010 budget request, proposing level funding for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins Act) at $1.3 billion. The Perkins Act is the primary source of federal funding supporting local education programs that connect education and real-world careers. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) appreciate the level funding proposal, but a stronger investment is needed to meet the growing needs of the students, the economy and the workforce. In order to build a pipeline of skilled workers and address critical education challenges, such as reducing the dropout rate, funding for the Perkins Act needs to be at least $1.4 billion for FY 2010 to support secondary and postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) programs.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc), the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE) and the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) announce the 2009 winner of the “Programs and Practices That Work: Preparing Students for Nontraditional Careers” award. The “GirlTech” program at Francis Tuttle Career Technology Center program, located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, encourages female high school students to enter science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—In light of the current economic crisis and workforce issues facing America today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), National Association of State Directors of Career and Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) and American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) sent a joint letter to President Obama requesting that his Fiscal Year 2010 Budget include at least $1.4 billion to support secondary and postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) programs through the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins).

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces the 2010 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month theme—CTE: Invest in Your Future. ACTE is hosting its annual CTE Month Logo Design Contest and is looking for logo submissions that illustrate the importance of CTE in providing the skills necessary for students to be competitive in the workforce. The contest is open to all CTE students. The designer of the winning CTE Month logo will receive a check for $250.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today announced the results of elections for the organization’s new Board of Directors who will take office on July 1, 2009. The new Board was elected by members of the Association during its annual election.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – A new Issue Brief by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), entitled “The Role of Career Academies in Education Improvement,” describes the important role career academies have in reducing the dropout rate and preparing students for today’s workforce. A critical factor contributing to low student achievement is the lack of education relevancy. Career academies provide students with applied learning and engage them in college preparatory curricula that integrate rigorous academic and career and technical education (CTE) courses.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today announced Senator Richard Durbin (D-Illinois) as the 2009 Policymaker of the Year. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education (CTE) during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA - The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today announced that Cindy Bai of Plano, Texas won the secondary category and Aaron Locker of Casper, Wyoming won the postsecondary category in the 2009 Cliff Weiss Essay Contest. The winners wrote essays on the topic, “What would you tell President Obama about your CTE experience?” ACTE received 158 entries. Each of the winners will receive an award of $250 and the essays will be published in the May issue of Techniques.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – As states increase the number of academic credits required for high school graduation, they are developing new ways of integrating academic content with content from CTE courses to help students meet these requirements. One trend emerging is the state and local support for the recognition of academic credit for career and technical education (CTE) courses. A new paper released by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), entitled “Joining Forces for Student Success: The Emergence of State and Local Policies to Support the Recognition of Academic Credit for CTE Coursework,” highlights findings from a state survey, describes innovative ways states and localities are employing this strategy and offers recommendations on how to effectively implement and systemize course development.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has added an interview with Mike Rowe, host of the Discovery Channel series “Dirty Jobs,” to its Career Tech Talk podcast series, which features interviews with leaders and innovators in CTE. Rowe discusses his project mikeroweWORKS, describes the need for skilled labor in the United States as well as this nation’s negative perception of the skilled trades, and shares what he learned about education and hard work from his family.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are working together to promote the importance of career and technical education (CTE), especially related to current economic issues. The CTSOs met this month with President Obama’s transition team to discuss the critical role CTE plays in education reform, building a qualified workforce and economic development. ACTE has also met with the President’s team to discuss CTE’s ability to leverage economic growth and recovery.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and the International Center for Leadership in Education have partnered to announce the creation of the Institute for 21st Century Leadership. The Institute is based around the concept of preparing students to be “work-life-college ready” and incorporates the philosophy of rigor, relevance and relationships.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education today announced the topic for the Cliff Weiss Essay contest in the memory of former ACTE Senior Director of Communications Cliff Weiss (1951-2004). This year’s topic for secondary and postsecondary students is “What would you tell President Obama about your CTE experience?”

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today commends President-elect Obama in naming Arne Duncan, chief executive officer of Chicago Public Schools, as Secretary of Education. Duncan has worked on improving CTE programs in Chicago to ensure students graduate from high school with the knowledge and skills necessary to be prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) last week held its Annual Convention and announced today that 4,200 educators and exhibitors attended the event in Charlotte, North Carolina, December 4-6. During the three-day Convention, ACTE released a guidance Issue Brief; held a luncheon celebrating 100 years of career guidance; launched the Association’s new Web site; announced the 2009 Career and Technical Education Month PSA video and national award winners; and held more than 300 concurrent sessions that covered topics such as workforce readiness, career academies, curriculum integration, business partnerships and federal initiatives and legislation affecting CTE.

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that students from Birdville Media Tech, Birdville ISD in Haltom City, Texas, won the 29-second Public Service Announcement (PSA) contest by ACTE. The students, Yanina Gonzalez, Adrian Scarborough, Joseph Walsh and Philip Wilmut, developed a PSA called “Beyond A Textbook,” which will be used to publicize CTE Month during February 2009. ACTE debuted the video during its National Awards Ceremony at ACTE’s Annual Convention in Charlotte, NC.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) unveiled its new Web site (www.acteonline.org) at its Annual Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. The new Web site allows members and visitors to find information quickly and effectively and to interact with professionals in the CTE community through new features that include blogs, public and private forums, personal pages and immediate access to the latest CTE news.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) released a new issue brief today, entitled “Career and Technical Education’s Role in Career Guidance,” that explores the leading role career and technical education (CTE) plays in the area of career guidance and improving student success through career-development services. Although there are counseling structures in place within the educational system, challenges, including an average student/counselor ratio of 479 to 1, indicate that more needs to be done to provide students with strong career guidance and career development services.

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and Participant Media are partnering to increase awareness regarding the value of career and technical education (CTE) and the need for additional state and federal investment to support CTE programs which meet national economic and workforce needs.

A new issue brief by The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) entitled, “CTE’s Role in Energy and Environmental Sustainability” outlines the critical role career and technical education (CTE) plays in educating and preparing students with knowledge about sustainability issues in order to meet workforce demands.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces Michael Brandonisio of Gurnee, Illinois, as the winner of the 2009 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month Logo Design Contest.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) in cooperation with the Congressional CTE Caucus will exhibit a variety of “green” projects by Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) students from across the country tomorrow, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Room B-338 Rayburn House Office Building. Media is welcome to attend the event.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is searching for future filmmakers to create a 29-second Public Service Announcement (PSA) to publicize CTE Month during February 2009.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) Board of Directors approved a national research agenda for career and technical education (CTE) during its July Board meeting that provides improved focus and coordination of research topics, and encourages the process of collecting data and information on CTE to inform policymakers, the public and CTE practitioners.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education announced today that Spencer Terry of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, won the secondary category and Carrie Snyder-Renfro of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, won the postsecondary category for the 2008 Cliff Weiss Essay contest.

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is holding a regional meeting with teachers from 6 states including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Volunteers from the association as well as students from Delgado Community College’s chapter of Delta Epsilon Chi are working to renovate the homes of Katrina evacuees, under the supervision of Rebuilding Together New Orleans.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces the 2009 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month theme, CTE: Building Blocks for a Successful Career.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today Congressman Phil English (PA-3) as a 2008 Policymaker of the Year. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today announced Congressman Brian Baird (WA-3) as a 2008 Policymaker of the Year. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today awarded Congressman John Peterson (PA-5) with a Special Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing him for his advocacy and contributions toward career and technical education during his 12 years in Congress. He will be retiring at the end of his current term.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) today awarded WRAL News Anchor and Reporter Ken Smith with the Image Award, which recognizes a well-known individual who has brought positive attention to the career and technical education field. Smith is the inaugural recipient of the award.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education today announced the topics for the Cliff Weiss Essay contest in the memory of former ACTE Senior Director of Communications Cliff Weiss (1951-2004).

ALEXANDRIA, VA- Today, the White House unveiled its Fiscal Year 2009 budget request, which eliminated funding for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. The Perkins Act is the primary source of funding that supports local education programs that connect education and real-world careers, according to the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc). In order to meet education and workforce needs, Perkins should be funded at $1.7 billion for FY 2009.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces students and faculty in career and technical education programs across the nation are set to celebrate February as National Career and Technical Education Month (CTE Month). This year’s theme is Discovering Skills for a Competitive Workforce, which highlights the critical role that career and technical education plays in developing youth and adults for the workforce. Schools across the nation will showcase programs through activities that illustrate the significance of CTE programs and their impact on the economic growth of the country.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that last week’s Annual Convention attendance was the largest in six years, with more than 5,300 attendees and approximately 250 exhibitors showcasing their products and services at the Career Tech Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, December 13-15. During the three-day Convention, ACTE debuted the 2008 CTE Month PSA video, released a series of state profiles, announced national award winners, and held more than 300 concurrent sessions that covered topics such as academic integration, the use of technology, career clusters, and career academies.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today that Danielle Simons, Collin Russel, Taylor Jones and Jonny McBee from Summit Technology Academy, located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, have won the CTE Month PSA contest with an entry entitled “Finding Your Way.” The winners will receive $750 and a complimentary copy of Apple’s Final Cut Studio 2, a professional video-editing suite, which Apple donated for the contest. Brent Garner from HEB Technical Education Center, located in Bedford, Texas, was the runner up and will receive a complimentary copy of Apple’s Final Cut Studio 2. The first place video was played during ACTE’s National Award ceremony at its Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces the release of a series of new state profiles providing a comprehensive overview of states’ career and technical education systems. The profiles will communicate information that provides a better understanding of CTE systems, which have grown in complexity as states have initiated new and innovative reforms to meet the needs of students and employers in the 21st Century.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces today that Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, is sponsoring the general session discussion on Friday, December 14 during the Association’s Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. United States Deputy Secretary of Education Raymond Simon and Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco will discuss reforms in the U.S. education system and regional economic initiatives that could impact the future workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces today that CEV Multimedia, LTD., a leader in providing career and technical education multimedia materials nationwide, is sponsoring the ACTE National Awards ceremony during ACTE’s Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, on December 14. CEV will provide video production for the awards ceremony, including the introduction and voiceovers describing the awards. At convention, CEV will release its new curriculum Multimedia Pathway Units (MPU), which will include interactive materials for teachers and schools implementing the Career Clusters model.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has launched a new series of blogs that will provide members an opportunity to share their opinions and gain insight on the latest issues in career and technical education (CTE). The blogs are written and moderated by members on a weekly basis, and they are available for the general public to read and comment on. The first two blogs are from the Trade and Industrial Education Division (T&I Division) and the New and Related Services Division (NRS Division). The T&I Division is concerned with education in industries such as construction; automotive technology; heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; and computer-aided drafting; while the NRS Division focuses on areas such as Tech Prep, professional development, customized business and industry training services, and CTE research. Other industry-specific blogs will follow next year.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has added an interview with Bob Vila, host of television shows “Bob Vila” and “This Old House,” to its “Career Tech Talk” podcast series, which features interviews with leaders and innovators in CTE. Vila shares his thoughts on the construction industry, including training needs and innovations. He also discusses his education background, his father’s influence and his favorite tool.

Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is co-sponsoring a briefing with Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA) and Rep. Phil English (R-PA) to announce the new Career and Technical Education Caucus. The bi-partisan group of members will work together tohighlight the importance of CTE in preparing a well-educated and skilled workforce. Speakers will discuss the reauthorization of No Child Left Behind Act, Higher Education Act, and issues relating to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and CTE.

Alexandria, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE)today announced they have joined with America’s Promise Alliance and Capital One to launch the 2008 100 Best Communities for Young People Competition (100 Best). ACTE will help the Alliance search for those 100 outstanding communities across America that are the best places for young people to live and grow up.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Janet Bray, executive director of The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), testified this morning before the House Education and Labor committee hearing providing recommendations regarding the reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). Bray discussed the need for high school reform, better links to career and workforce readiness, and the importance of including the use of career and technical education credentials and measurements in the reauthorized law.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is searching for budding filmmakers and is looking to the career and technical education (CTE) community to find them.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) will release the inaugural 2008 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Weekly Planner in October. It will showcase pictures of CTE students and teachers engaging in career and technical education. All photos for the planner were submitted by ACTE members.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 24 of 30 fastest growing occupations will need postsecondary education and training. While 38 percent of students enter into postsecondary education or training, only approximately 18 percent will graduate from college with a bachelor’s degree within six years or an associate degree within three years, according to recent research. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has released an issue brief entitled, “CTE’s Role in Secondary-Postsecondary Transitions,” which outlines strategies to ensure students’ successful transitions from high school to postsecondary education.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has added an interview with Troy Justesen, assistant secretary for the Office of Vocational and Adult Education (OVAE), to its “Career Tech Talk” podcast series, which features interviews with leaders and innovators in CTE. Justesen discusses issues ranging from CTE priorities, the No Child Left Behind Act and workforce development, to his reading list and greatest hero.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces Jamie-Lyn Bacon of Tonawanda, New York, as the winner of the 2008 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month Logo Design Contest. Bacon’s design was selected from more than 600 entries submitted by students from across the country. The design incorporates the theme “CTE:Discovering Skills for a Competitive Workforce,” and it will be showcased on promotional products ordered by schools and institutions.

A briefing honoring three programs that were recognized as “Programs and Practices that Work” (PPTW) by employing promising practices to improve student’s enrollment and retention in courses that lead to nontraditional, often high-demand careers:

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Results of the Condition of Education 2007 findings released last week by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics may indicate that U.S. high school students require additional career and technical education (CTE) coursework in order to improve student performance. “Higher levels of knowledge and skills for our young people in academic content are absolutely necessary, but school leaders will make a miscalculation if they just add more challenging courses without changing the way courses are taught,” said Jan Bray, executive director for the Association for Career and Technical Education.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – With advances in technology, the labor market has transformed into one that needs highly skilled workers with, at minimum, a high school diploma. However, research shows that nearly one in three students who start high school fails to complete it in four years. With dropout rates a national issue, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has released an issue brief entitled, “Career and Technical Education’s Role in Dropout Prevention and Recovery.”

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is currently accepting photo submissions for its 2008 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Weekly Planner. The theme “Connecting Education and Careers” will highlight how students and teachers are experiencing CTE in the classroom or workplace. The submissions for photos are open to ACTE members and students taking CTE courses in secondary and postsecondary schools. Deadline to enter is June 29, 2007.

ALEXANDRIA, VA– The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today a new Web page called “Research Clearinghouse" that provides educators and policymakers a site to find current research and information on career and technical education.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Qing Fan of Staten Island, New York and Bobbie Copas of Sallisaw, Oklahoma have been selected as the winners of the 2007 Cliff Weiss Memorial Essay Contest.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is visiting Western School of Technology and Environmental Science and the Community College of Baltimore County-Catonsville today to celebrate national Career and Technical Education Month (CTE Month). The original visit was scheduled for February 15, but it was postponed due to weather. This year’s theme, “Today an Education, Tomorrow a Career,” emphasizes the role that career and technical education plays in assisting youth and adults to be competitive in today’s workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- A Seattle Public Schools (SPS) program called “Inspiring Girls Now in Technology Evolution (IGNITE)” is the 2007 “Programs and Practices That Work: Preparing Students for Nontraditional Careers” Award winner. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc), the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE), and the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) created the award to recognize local and/or state educational agencies, programs, and/or schools that have improved students’ access to and completion of career and technical education programs that are nontraditional for their gender.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today Senator Orrin Hatch as one of the 2007 Policy Makers of the Year during its Power Breakfast at Capital Hilton’s Presidential Ballroom. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today Senator Tom Harkin as one of the 2007 Policymakers of the Year. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today House Republican Leader John Boehner as one of the 2007 Policymakers of the Year during its Power Breakfast at the Capital Hilton’s Presidential Ballroom. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Representative Howard “Buck” McKeon as one of its 2007 Policymakers of the Year during its Power Breakfast at the Capital Hilton’s Presidential Ballroom. This award is presented annually by the ACTE Board of Directors to nationally-recognized policymakers who have made a significant impact on policy related to career and technical education during the past year or extended career of public service.

ALEXANDRIA, VA– The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today a new Web site highlighting best practices in career and technical education. The “Best Practices and Programs” site will highlight career and technical education programs in high schools, community colleges and career centers around the country. The Web page is designed to illustrate how schools and institutions have found creative solutions to providing innovative programs in education, technical skills and learning opportunities.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is currently accepting submissions for its 2008 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month Logo Design Contest. The theme, CTE:Discovering Skills for a Competitive Workforce, will showcase national CTE Month. ACTE is looking for a logo that captures the importance of career and technical education and skills necessary for today’s students. The contest is only open to career and technical education students. The winner of the CTE Month Logo Design Contest will receive a check for $250.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced today its six recommendations for Congress to incorporate into the reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) that will provide support and enhance student achievement. ACTE believes that a newly reauthorized NCLB must focus on both rigor and relevancy if the United States is to remain competitive.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- Today, the White House unveiled its Fiscal Year 2008 budget request, which would cut over 50 percent of funding for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. The Perkins Act is the primary source of funding that supports local education programs that connect education and real-world careers, according to the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc).

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces today that February is National Career and Technical Education month (CTE Month). The theme for this year, Today an Education, Tomorrow a Career, emphasizes the role that career and technical education plays in assisting youths and adults to be competitive in today’s workforce.

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- For the fourth straight year, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is sponsoring an essay contest in the memory of former ACTE Senior Director of Communications, Cliff Weiss (1951 -2004). Cliff Weiss had a passion for career and technical education, which he showcased through his writing. The purpose of this contest is to recognize career and technical education (CTE) students who share the same passion and talents. A secondary and postsecondary CTE student will each receive an award of $250 in addition to having their essay published in ACTE’s Techniques Magazine.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces today the launch of three podcasts on its’ Web site www.acteonline.org titled “Career Tech Talk,” “TechNotes” and “Policy on Demand.” These podcasts will serve as an information resource for ACTE members and the public to understand issues relating to career and technical education and ACTE’s advocacy efforts.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Joline Dunbar of Brookings, South Dakota, has been named ACTE Outstanding Teacher in Community Service. The award was presented to her at the ACTE Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo on December 1 in Atlanta, Georgia.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Mike Gillispie of Glendale, Arizona has been named the ACTE Outstanding Educator of the Year. Gillispie received the award at the ACTE Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo on December 1 in Atlanta, Georgia.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Leslie Watkins of Paducah, Kentucky has been named the ACTE Teacher of the Year. Watkins received the award at the ACTE Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo on December 1 in Atlanta, Georgia.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Sandy Hume of Eau Claire, Wisconsin has been named the ACTE Outstanding New Career and Technical Teacher. The award was presented to Hume at the ACTE Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo on December 1 in Atlanta, GA.

Alexandria, VA—Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) member Brian Fuller of Peoria, Arizona, was recently selected as Arizona’s 2006 American Star of Teaching by the U.S. Department of Education. The award recognizes teachers who improve student achievement and use innovative strategies to make a difference in the lives of children.

Alexandria, VA—Today, after years of anticipation, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) celebrated the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998. The new law, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006, which was passed almost unanimously by Congress in late July, was officially signed into law Saturday by President Bush.

Last night on Capitol Hill the U.S. Senate voted to approve final reauthorization of the “Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006”. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is pleased with the progress that has been made and is hopeful the bill will soon become law.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- Yesterday on Capitol Hill, the conference committee appointed to negotiate the differences between the House- and Senate-passed Perkins reauthorization bills met and approved the conference agreement for the “Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act.” The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is pleased that the committee took the step toward final approval of the legislation and recognized the progress being made in career and technical education classrooms nationwide.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Lindsay McQuiggan of Hamburg, New York has been selected as the winner of the 2007 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month Logo Design Contest. A student at Potter Career and Technical Center, McQuiggan captured her second straight logo contest win. The graphic art student submitted the winner logo last year as well.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Aldo Martinez of Alamo, Texas and Kayla Staloerger of Menomonie, Wisconsin have been selected as the second pair of winners of the 2006 Cliff Weiss Memorial Essay Contest.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today on Capitol Hill, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education approved $1.296 billion for the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act, restoring the program’s basic state grant, tech prep, and national programs funding streams to FY 2006 levels. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is appreciative of the continued bi-partisan support for the program. Perkins provides federal funding for career and technical education (CTE) programs in communities across the country.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Maemij Ribeiro of Elmwood Park, Ill., and Catherine Maloney of Hattiesburg, Miss., have been selected to receive ACTE’s 2006 Who’s Who Among American High School Students scholarship. Each student will receive $1,000 to use toward continuing her education.

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has learned that President George W. Bush has nominated Troy R. Justesen to be Assistant Secretary for the Office of Vocational and Adult Education (OVAE) at the Department of Education. If confirmed by the Senate, Mr. Justesen would replace The Honorable Susan Sclafani who resigned from the Administration September 6, 2005. The Honorable Beto Gonzalez had been serving in the role of Acting Assistant Secretary in the interim.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Representing the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), Michael McDaniel, Superintendent of the Ashland County-West Holmes Joint Vocational School District in Ohio, testified today before the House Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee about the importance of funding for the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Beginning February 2007, National Career and Technical Education Week will be expanded to National Career and Technical Education Month (CTE Month), and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is currently accepting submissions for its 2007 CTE Month Logo Design Contest. The theme, Career Tech: Today an Education, Tomorrow a Career, will showcase national CTE Month and ACTE is seeking a logo that captures the importance of career and technical education for the future of today’s students. The contest is open to all career and technical education students. The winner of the Career and Technical Education Week Logo Design Contest will receive a check for $250.

ALEXANDRIA, VA –For the second time in his career Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA) will receive one of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) National Policymakers of the Year awards. ACTE is honoring Senator Kennedy for his dedication to and support for the improvement of career and technical education policies, which ensure that youth and adults are prepared for the future by building their skills for the careers of today and tomorrow.

ALEXANDRIA, VA –Hans Meeder, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Education in the U.S. Department of Education Office of Vocational and Adult Education was presented with the Association for Career and Technical Education’s (ACTE) Board of Directors Award on Tuesday, March 7, 2006 during ACTE’s annual National Policy Seminar at the Capitol Hilton in Washington, DC.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc), the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE), and the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) announced today that the Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support (ICSPS) received the highest recognition in the “Programs and Practices That Work: Preparing Students for Nontraditional Careers Project”. ACTE, NASDCTEc, NAPE and NWLC joined together and created the project to recognize local and/or state educational agencies, programs, and/or schools that have improved students’ access to and completion of career and technical education programs that are nontraditional for their gender.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT) will be honored as one of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) 2006 National Policymakers of the Year on Wednesday, March 8, 2006 during ACTE’s annual National Policy Seminar at the Capitol Hilton in Washington, DC.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) will be honored as one of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) 2006 National Policymakers of the Year. Representative Woolsey will accept her award on Wednesday, March 8, 2006 during ACTE’s annual National Policy Seminar at the Capitol Hilton in Washington, DC.

ALEXANDRIA, VA –The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) will host a National Dissemination Center for Career and Technical Education (NDCCTE) webcast discussing Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) and their role in integrating academic, technical and employability skills. The live webcast will be held at ACTE headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday, February 16, 2006, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. EST, in celebration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Week. The interactive event and previous webcasts can be viewed on the NDCCTE Web site, www.nccte.org.

ALEXANDRIA, VA- Today, the White House unveiled its fiscal year 2007 budget request that, for a second year in a row, eliminates the federal investment in career and technical education authorized by the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act. The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc) are disappointed with the President’s budget request and will work with the Congress and Administration to seek restoration of Perkins funds during the appropriations process.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announces that Meicheng Shi of San Jose, California and Ginne Catherine Bushong of Tucson, Arizona have been selected as the winners of the 2006 Cliff Weiss Memorial Essay Contest.

ALEXANDRIA, VA—In light of the current and future challenges facing the nation’s youth, high school redesign and reform has become a rising issue of importance, capturing national attention. Today, ACTE released its position statement on high school reform, “Reinventing the American High School for the 21st Century,” outlining the organization’s vision on what high schools should be and how career and technical education (CTE) can contribute to reform and redesign efforts.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – For the third straight year, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is sponsoring an essay contest in the memory of former ACTE Senior Director of Communications, Cliff Weiss (1951 -2004). Cliff Weiss had a passion for career and technical education, which he showcased through his writing. The purpose of this contest is to recognize career and technical education (CTE) students who share the same passion and talents. A secondary and postsecondary CTE student will each receive an award of $250 in addition to having their essay published in ACTE’s Techniques Magazine.