[rarestia]

I completely agree that college is not for everyone.

HOWEVER, with a complete drought of technical and vocational schools, where else can these kids go out of high school?

My brother is a tradesman and does good work, but he has no formal education; all of his training is on-the-job. Because of this (and the fact he doesn’t speak Spanish), he can’t get a job that requires certifications or formal training.

Until we can fix the state of trade schools in this country, we’re going to have generations of high school graduates who are left in limbo post-secondary.

[bert]

http://www.nstcc.cc.tn.us/

Locally, the industry has supported the growth and development of Northeast State. It offers two year degrees in specific areas of study directed and supported by the local industries. It is also used by many as a gateway to a four year program elsewhere.

It provides grounding in English and other basic skills needed for almost all jobs that now require some interaction with a computer and e mail.

[Nip]

If you have watched “Waiting for Superman” you should remember that our education system was designed in the 1950’s and that only the top graduates were supposed to go to college; half were supposed to go to trade schools, etc.

BTW, do you realize that in 1975 we reduced size of the largest technical training system in the world - the DoD’s schools for recent inductees. Where else could a kid with no education and no future get technical training in almost every skill imagined in exchange for military service?

No, I am not advocating a return to the draft - it was too painful to endure again (have the T-shirt too). Just want to remind you of what else was lost when we went to the all volunteer force.

[jch10]

Here in NW Florida, we do have trade schools and many can be attended while in high school. Just about every city and/or district has a vocational school that offers skills training.

It appears that not nearly enough are utilizing them.