Why We Need MORE Vocational Education/Career Training

By Joel Heinrichs

A large share of our students need this kind of preparation for work and simply do not have access to it.

A recent, comprehensive legislative-analyst report documents how poorly our current vocational educational programs perform (in terms of really getting young people ready to work) and the large share of students who need this kind of preparation and simply do not have access to it.

The standard explanation is: "vocational education costs too much". And - traditional equipment heavy programs are relatively expensive. But -- the answer is not to give up! The answer is to get creative about how we might deploy modern career and technical training using existing facilities (community colleges/private businesses), specialized charter schools in lower-cost facilities, and other innovative ideas.

We have very able teachers and administrators who can solve this problem - with enough focus, resources, and community support.

I have prepared a specific proposal for Kern High School District--available online at: http://www.Joel4KHSD.com