Title
Using a State Center Concept to Retain CTE Teachers
Session Code
2068
Venue
Phoenix Convention Center
Room
122 A/B
Description
As the labor force ages and participation rates decline, industry demand for a strong skilled workforce continues to rise. Several of the fastest-growing occupations for 2014-2024 include areas within career and technical education (CTE). As CTE programs strive to produce well trained employees, administrators are faced with the challenge of teacher shortages and attrition. The following areas were identified by past research and implemented into a state center to address improving retention of this part of the equation. 1. Content Knowledge/Skill Development: Enhancing current skills often declines as teaching demands increase. It is vital for CTE teachers to continue learning current trends, teaching methods, and skills in their content area. 2. Instructional Materials: CTE teachers spend hours developing instructional materials. Being able to maintain curriculum that matches workforce demands is an ongoing challenge. 3. Support: CTE teachers face additional challenges such as managing student organizations, laboratory maintenance, equipment acquisition, safety concerns, and advisory boards. Support is needed for these unique considerations. 4. Pedagogical skills: Access to teacher education coursework and degree options specific to CTE is important for continued professional development and teacher efficacy.