Should districts offer more career and technical education programs? Why or why not?

Yes, districts should offer more career and technical education programs. They allow students to learn the high-tech skills required by today's employers and, simultaneously, learn to apply their academic skills so they understand their relevance.
Margie Alexander, Lamphere (Mich.) Federation of Teachers

It is a wonderful notion to believe that all our students will go on to become scientists, doctors, lawyers, etc. However, we need to address the students with hands-on skills and interest in the trades and business. We need to value this training—beginning in our secondary schools or sooner.
Mary Schwertfeger, Brooke County (W. Va.) Federation of Teachers

Absolutely. But we need to plan career and technical programs for the 21st century for jobs that will lead to careers, not to dead-end minimum-wage work.
Mira Rubens, United Federation of Teachers (New York City)

I believe districts should focus upon the education of the K-12 students entrusted to them. Community colleges and counties should oversee career and technical education.
Thom Knab, Williamsville (N.Y.) Teachers Association

Yes. Many students do a lot better in these classes because this is where their interest is focused, and they are much more motivated to succeed. In many instances, their reading and math improve because it can be taught through these programs. 
Rita Stevens, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers

Yes. Not every child is college bound, and we need to have programs in place to train those children who need or want to work right out of high school.
Michele Windler, United Teachers of Wichita (Kan.)