Beefing Up Career and Technical Education in Kentucky

"Kentucky Beefs Up its CTE Program" written by Mary Helphinstine, Larry Helphinestine and Wayne King reveals the combined efforts of the Office of Career and Technical Education and the Kentucky Department of Education. These two offices have been working together since 2001 to improve educational requirements students need, and what employers are asking for in the job force. The work industry requires students who are skilled in the technical and academic aspects of jobs.

An assessment process was developed to bring to light the strengths and weaknesses of career and technical programs. A team was developed to evaluate the programs using a scoring system of one through four. Along with state assessments, each school is required to do self- assessments to ensure continuity of growth and compliance.

Strengths, challenges, and concerns documented found student scores have increased, but CATS proficiency scores need to improve. Parent and community involvement has also improved. Some of the challenges were the need for more professional development, keeping teachers in the career-tech programs and improving academic scores. It is wise to note that Kentucky's Office and Technical Education was admitted by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement. The OCTE district now has the responsibility to oversee and provide support to area technology centers.