Recently adopted regulations for high school graduation are threatening to shrink vocational education. Following the increasingly popular nostrum that all students should be prepared for college, the state of North Carolina now requires all students to complete the courses required for admission to the UNC system. This requirement adds a course in advanced math and two courses in a foreign language.
Superintendent of Education June Atkinson concedes that vocational and arts courses could get pushed aside. Since the requirements were enacted, some legislators have fought to increase funding for vocational courses. S.B. 1473, introduced by Sen. Harry Brown, R-Onslow, would provide $150 million in funding for high school regional vocational education centers that would teach subjects such as biomedical technology, automotive technology, and construction skills.
But the larger question is whether all students should be on a “college track”
– or whether some students will accomplish more in life by taking vocational courses and entering the workforce after graduation or perhaps taking two years of postsecondary education rather than pursue an academic degree.
The issue was the focus of a recent national radio program, “America’s Business,” hosted by Matt Hambrick and put together by the National Association of Manufacturers. The discussion focused on whether high schools should push all students toward college. Among those questioning the state regulations was the Pope Center’s George Leef.
To listen to the full program, click here.