Integrating Careers Into Your Classroom: Past, Present, and Future

What prepares a graduating high school student for meaningful work as they enter adulthood? Conventional wisdom from the last several decades has stressed a direct pipeline into higher education. Should this be considered the gold standard and best practice? Make no mistake, there is great value in a college education. However, a laser focus on moving students from traditional high school models into the halls of higher learning has permeated our culture, and driven the conversations in countless guidance counselor offices, perhaps to the detriment of not only individual students, but our economy and ability to compete in a global market as well. In this wide-ranging exploration of the value of integrating careers such as manufacturing and traditional blue collar jobs into classroom experiences, author Dr. Bonnie-Marie Doughty-Jenkins tackles the value and definition of post-high school education. From exploring our cultural history and norms around college bound guidance, to diving into the perhaps unintended outcome of a wide gap in the skilled labor workforce, you’ll be inspired to think both deeply and broadly about what our focus on education means for students as individuals, and the nation as a whole. In the end, there is a simple question to be posed, and an answer to be drawn: Do students need to go to college to have a successful career? No. Do they need to be educated? Yes! There is a clear difference between college and education. To be educated means to be schooled in the information you need to be a successful critical thinker and meaningful participation in society. And it is never a one size fits all mold. Dive into this book to learn how you can more effectively guide the students in your care to a meaningful future - no matter which path they take.