YouScience recently published a report that examines the challenges and opportunities identified by a survey of more than 400 CTE leaders nationwide. The researchers found five major areas of focus for CTE leaders:
- Enrollment: Sixty-six percent of CTE leaders state that there is a lack of awareness of CTE programs, and 57% identify persistent misconceptions and biases against CTE. Furthermore, while 76% of leaders say that career exploration tools are critical to boosting enrollment, 52% note that their students have limited access to these tools. Many CTE leaders are developing solutions to these problems, such as introducing middle school students to different CTE pathways and holding CTE family nights.
- Employer Engagement: CTE leaders have trouble connecting employers and work-based learning opportunities to CTE programs—63% struggle aligning school schedules with employer needs, 55% face liability concerns and 49% state that some employers lack awareness of CTE. The report highlights successful strategies like working with intermediaries to develop relationships.
- Alignment With Workforce: Aligning CTE programs and curriculum with specific workforce and industry needs is another critical issue. Fifty-four percent of CTE leaders review curriculum and certification programs with industry partners, 59% participate in workforce development networks and 61% conduct labor market research. Incorporating industry credentials is one strategy that CTE leaders have turned to in order to strengthen employer and labor market connections.
- Measurement and Outcomes: It is important that CTE leaders have comprehensive data showing the impact of CTE in their communities, but 64% rely on manual spreadsheets to track student outcomes and 29% have trouble demonstrating ROI to stakeholders. The researchers argue that modernizing data collection systems is important as manual tracking is time-consuming and diverts attention away from students.
- Access Gaps: CTE leaders are focused on expanding CTE access to students. Fifty-four percent prioritize providing financial support or scholarships, 54% prioritize accommodations and 53% target flexible scheduling. The researchers also highlight the use of aptitude-based assessments to broaden CTE exposure.
