Our second report examines the growth and tremendous importance of Career Technical Education (CTE) in Pinellas County, noting that CTE is vital in meeting the needs of employers by effectively preparing students for the work force. Case in point: By 2020, nearly two-thirds of jobs will require postsecondary education or training and nearly 60% of employers nationally report that high school is not preparing students for college or careers. Career and Technical Education can bridge that gap.
This report focuses on several components of CTE in Pinellas County Schools: high school Career and Professional Education (CAPE) academies, industry certifications offered in high school, and career and technical education opportunities at Pinellas Technical College. Pinellas Education Foundation partners with Pinellas County Schools to promote Career and Technical Education. The Foundation was also a partner in preparing this report. Some key findings:
■ In Pinellas County Schools, there are 46 CAPE academies in 17 high schools. CAPE academies follow a rigorous curriculum organized around a theme and prepare students for careers and postsecondary education. The number of students participating in CAPE academies has increased over the last three graduating classes from 38% to 44% of all students.
■ Across all programs, in three years, the number of students earning industry certifications has almost doubled (1,070 to 1,949 students); the average number of certifications per student is also increasing.
■ Pinellas Technical College offers short-term programs leading to middle- and high-wage, in-demand jobs, meaning that students can be in a career within a year. At Pinellas Technical College, 85% of students complete their program and 96% are placed in jobs.
