An extensive review was conducted by the research committee of various evaluation plans and policies of local and state educational agencies, national tech prep organizations, and national research organizations. Results of these efforts yielded a set of indicators that has strong parallels to the six components of successful transition programs identified here. The new Perkins law identifies the four core indicators as skill proficiencies, secondary and postsecondary degrees and credentials, postsecondary education and employment, and non-traditional training and employment. The tech prep program is evaluated in relation to those objectives and outcomes on an annual basis. Program assessment is designed to measure and summarize student outcomes resulting from tech prep articulated programs of study.
Mechanisms are in place to ensure institutional sustainability of the program.
All students are afforded the opportunity to participate in tech prep. Tech prep students are enrolled in a seamless program of study that begins preferably by grade 9 but at least by grade 11 and continues through at least two years of postsecondary education. The seamless program incorporates broad career clusters and rigorous academics. All aspects of the industry are embedded into the curriculum. The curriculum incorporates career clusters and programs of study that embrace rigorous academic and technical competencies.