Improving Career Technical Education (CTE) quality in rural communities is an imperative for all states, yet rural CTE programs often face unique challenges that are not present in more densely populated areas. For example, decentralization, lack of resources and more limited employer relationships in rural communities can result in the preservation of legacy programs over more industry-relevant career pathways. Decisions about what programs to offer are too often driven by the availability of equipment or facilities, teacher supply and even tradition.
This brief from Advance CTE, the first in a series on rural CTE access and quality, explores state strategies to improve the quality of local CTE programs to ensure they meet industry needs and expand opportunities for rural learners. The brief profiles Nebraska, South Dakota, Idaho and Mississippi to demonstrate different approaches state leaders can take to empower local leaders and support program improvement in rural areas.
Click here to explore other resources in the CTE on the Frontier series.
This report was developed through the New Skills for Youth initiative, a partnership of the Council of Chief State School Officers, Advance CTE and the Education Strategy Group, generously funded by JPMorgan Chase & Co.
