Today, vocational students must apply for admission and, once admitted, their studies stretch from sonnets to sonar tubes. Infusing the symbolism of William Wordsworth and the ingenuity of Eli Whitney, the integrated curricular pursuits of vocational schools link applied academic rigor with preparation for today's careers. Using studies of the Civil War as an example, we can differentiate the academic education of the technical versus non-vocational student. Significantly, the injustices suffered by minorities in 1862 would serve as a platform for discussion of the need for tolerance and teaming within today's work environment. Certainly at Valley Tech, teachers of both academic and career courses focus on building the character as well as the competence of each student.
Vocational teaching is individualized, realistic and relevant.
This pragmatic approach to lesson-plan design is a hallmark of vocational schools that educators across the state would do well to emulate. In fact, most pursue practical internships and hold after-school jobs. The accomplishments of these busy students are enough to make one think that voc-tech students prize the opportunity that Edison noted. Vocational graduates do practical, necessary work with specific results that deliver value to consumers in a competitive marketplace. Voc-tech students, seeking opportunity, are ambitiously readying themselves for household and community responsibilities.