Programs for career and technical education (CTE) are frequently discussed in the media, but do they really live up to the hype? To put it succinctly, sure! CTE is a comprehensive practice that serves students with a wide range of goals and includes a variety of distinctive program kinds. Comprehensive CTE programs are developed to prepare students for entry into high-demand careers or for further postsecondary education. They are adaptable, progressive, student-focused, and well worth the financial outlay to increase the possibilities available to students.

Thinking in starting a CTE program in your district or school? Here are five advantages to consider:

Increase the percentage of graduates

The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) reports that, in contrast to the 84.6 percent national average, 93 percent of high school students enrolled in CTE programs graduate on time. Furthermore, 81 percent of high school dropouts “reported that relevant, real-world learning opportunities would have kept them in high school,” according to ASCD study.

Speak with more pupils who are at risk

It’s clear that struggling kids are drawn to CTE choices. However, CTE options are just as crucial in assisting students in achieving academic success and building on that encouraging momentum. Engagement flows easily when students can see their own accomplishments and have a clear, measurable learning objective. The benefits are also evident: 27% of those with less than an associate degree, including those with licenses and certificates, make more money overall than the typical bachelor’s degree holder.

Hold onto funds and students

It’s no secret that children who struggle academically are among the most inclined to switch from traditional classroom settings to more flexible ones like virtual or charter schools. Retaining these students—and the associated funds—in your district can be facilitated by CTE programs that prioritize career preparation.

Strengthen links with the community

Opportunities for experience and real-world application are crucial when preparing for a job. Engaging with local businesses and industries through CTE programming can offer students many options such as externships, internships, job shadowing, mentoring, and more. Better still, these experiences give students a strong foundation that enables them to go straight into employment that benefit the community following graduation.

Increase student involvement while reducing behavioral problems

Because they don’t see the value in attending class, at-risk pupils are frequently among the most disruptive ones. Not only are these children benefiting by being enrolled in CTE classes that lead to real certificates and employment, but so are other students and school personnel.

Are you prepared to launch your school or district’s career and technical education program? Examine Edmentum’s CTE programs.