I wanted to take a moment to share my insights regarding the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs play a critical role not only in equipping our students with essential skills but also in strengthening our ties with the community.

I completely agree that CTE initiatives are pivotal in motivating our students as they consider their graduation plans. The real-world experiences offered through these programs empower students to make informed academic choices, which in turn excites our scheduling counselors and reassures parents looking for clear pathways to success.

Furthermore, it's evident that CTE programs are vital… >>>

Effective feedback focuses on strengths. I know this, and I try to practice it. Unfortunatly, I still find it quite a challenge to stay strength-focused while trying to discuss areas of weakness. We're taught to "sandwitch" criticism between two compliments. While that may soften the blow, it does nothing to make an effective plan for change. Identifying what the instructor does well needs to be more than a sugar coating; it needs to be part of the plan for improvement. That is an area I need to explore much further. 

This course would be a great one for those new to Perkins as well as those who manage Perkins funding from the state or local level.  I also think anyone who utiilizes Perkins dollars for their programs would, upon completion, be able to have a better understanding about what is allowable.  It can also help in understanding the state role and reasons for guidance and oversight.  Sometimes at the classroom or district level, we feel that local control should be the rule, but with federal dollars, there is a reaon why the state has to ask for certain rules to… >>>

Work with your CTE Administrator and State Office on questions related to Perkins.  Each state handles the distribution formula (between secondary and post-secondary), evaluation, and accountability differently.

It is essential that CTE Administrators understand that formative assessments are just as valuable as summative assessments to help plan for the needs assessment of the schools.  Everything from informal observations to statewide testing can help create a picture of the needs that need to be focused on schoolwide.

It is imperative that shop safety is your number one priority.  ocassionaly otherissues or deadlines become a focus for projects or activities, it is never more important to get things done in a timely manner, it is ALWAYS more important to have them done safely.  You got to have eyes in the backmof your head, and ears that are tuned in to your environment.  Safety First!