<p>OP asked about tiers, not the wisdom of dropping out. “Dropouts” is a separate issue.</p>
<p>Why does the idea of a vo-tech track suggest dropping out of hs? Who said it means 16-17 yer olds are looking for jobs? They are not dropping out, they are in training, plus working to meet state standards for a hs degree. This is different than keeping them on the same general path with college bound kids, then asking them to enroll in cc or a tech training program at 18, at a cost. </p>
<p>What makes a 20 y.o. trade program grad better able to get his/her trade job just for having done the training between 18-20, rather than 16-18?</p>
<p>Are we in a bubble here? So focused on the dream aspects of college that we assume our tradesmen are unemployable? We are surrouded by successful people working in the trades-(“Millionaire Next Door” comes to mind.) They are dedicated to their industries or businesses, good parents, good citizens- and just as likely to be smart and interesting. Do they really need Engl 12 and World History to be the people they want to be?</p>
<p>Btw, many of our highly educated sons and daughters will be in a frustrating search for jobs, upon college graduation. Many of their vo-tech peers will be a few years into their work. Many of ours will end up in good jobs and be surprised to learn not all the folks doing the same job will have degrees. Or, not from par institutions that gave the same breadth and depth of knowledge. </p>
<p>I think we are blinded by the “promises” of a college degree. In our notions of offering fair shots to all kids (justice and equality,) are we trying to impose our own standards and hopes on kids who don’t want that direction? Is it fair to push all kids at college?</p>