ACTE Commends President Obama's American Graduation Initiative for Community Colleges

July 15, 2009

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association for Career and Technical Education applauds President Obama's new American Graduation Initiative announced today, which will help create innovative programs, renovate and rebuild schools, and create a virtual infrastructure of online courses. The Obama plan recognizes the important role that these institutions provide to educate and train students and adults for the high-demand jobs needed to keep the United States economically competitive. "It's refreshing to see President Obama acknowledge and emphasize the critical role that two-year colleges and training programs play with respect to building a pipeline of qualified workers," said ACTE Executive Director Jan Bray. "It's the first time in recent years that an American president has recognized the value of these institutions, and we hope that it includes technical colleges, career technical centers and all institutions that deliver postsecondary education and technical training." President Obama's goal to push more students beyond high school is important since one-third of the fastest growing occupations will require an associate's degree or a postsecondary vocational certificate. Equally important is ensuring fewer students drop out at the secondary level and receive the career education needed to direct them as they make postsecondary choices.

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