Supporting Your Child Through CTE: Ways to Help Them Thrive
If your child is struggling in school, you’re not alone. Many parents face the challenge of finding the right path for their children when traditional academics don’t click. Career and Technical Education (CTE) might be the solution you’ve been looking for. CTE is on the rise, offering practical skills and real-world learning opportunities that can set your child up for success. Here’s how CTE can benefit your child and how you can support them.
Why CTE Matters for Struggling Students
The job market is evolving, with a growing demand for skilled trade workers and health care professionals—many of which require only an associate degree or less. These middle-skill jobs, which need training beyond high school but not a four-year degree, are a significant part of the economy. With 1 million jobs open in trades, transportation, and utilities sectors, and a median earning of $31,000, CTE provides a clear route to financial stability.
For students who find traditional classroom learning challenging, CTE offers hands-on experience that can reignite their interest. Research suggests that 81% of dropouts say relevant real-world learning could have kept them in school. By engaging in CTE, your child can develop practical skills in fields like health care or skilled trades, areas where 12 of the 20 fastest-growing occupations are found.
Nearly all public high school graduates (97%) earn some CTE credits, and 15% of all credits earned are in these programs.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
The Educational Advantage of CTE
CTE programs are now widely available, from middle schools to postsecondary institutions across the country. Nearly all public high school graduates (97%) earn some CTE credits, and 15% of all credits earned are in these programs. For students pursuing credentials beyond high school, 79% of sub-baccalaureate degrees are in CTE fields. This widespread availability means your child can start exploring these opportunities early.
One of the standout benefits is the impact on graduation rates. Students concentrating in CTE programs graduate at a 93% rate, compared to the national average of 80% for freshmen. This 13% boost shows that CTE can provide the structure and relevance struggling students need to stay in school and earn their diploma.
Success Stories and Future Opportunities
CTE doesn’t just help students graduate—it sets them up for long-term success. Over 75% of secondary CTE concentrators pursue further education shortly after high school, opening doors to advanced careers. The real-world learning tools in CTE programs—such as internships or project-based learning—equip students with skills employers value, reducing the risk of dropping out.
As a parent, you can play a key role by encouraging your child to explore CTE options. Talk to their school counselor about available programs, whether in health care, technology, or trades. Visit websites like www.icevonline.com for resources and connect with organizations like Advance CTE for guidance.
Key takeaways
- CTE Boosts Graduation Rates: Students in CTE programs graduate at 93%, beating the national average.
- Real-World Skills Pay Off: CTE opens 1 million jobs with a $31,000 median salary.
- Engagement Saves Students: 81% of dropouts say real-world learning keeps them in school.
Taking the Next Step
If your child is disengaged or at risk of falling behind, CTE could be a game-changer. It offers a pathway that aligns with their interests and the job market’s needs, providing both immediate engagement and future opportunities. Start by discussing their passions and strengths with them, then work together to find a CTE program that fits. With your support, CTE can help your child build a successful future.
Over 75% of secondary CTE concentrators pursue further education shortly after high school.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
The villain here is the traditional academic grind that leaves struggling students disengaged and at risk of dropping out, robbing them of their potential and confidence. By embracing the positive values of practical learning, resilience, and career readiness through the Learning Success All Access Program, parents can empower their children to overcome this challenge and thrive. Start a free trial today at https://learningsuccess.ai/all-access/ to unlock a brighter future for your child.
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