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From the Desk of Linda McDonough - State Director, Tech-Prep
(March 27, 2007)
As we move into spring, I hope everyone is ready to tackle the big job of implementing Perkins IV. We are working hard at the state level to make the transition year a smooth one.
Perkins IV provides many opportunities for Tech Prep to shine. I realize that, at first read, the law and its new requirements for local accountability and programs of study seems daunting, but you have to look at it like the challenge that it is.
After several years of pending reauthorization, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 finally passed in August. The breathless anticipation gave way to groans and sighs as states weighed some of the options set out in the legislation: consolidate funds with Basic Grant funds or not; full six-year plan or transition year plan then five year; how to measure technical skill attainment; how to collect required data.
As of today I only have answers to two of those questions. For the transition year, Tech Prep funding will remain a separate funding stream. This does not mean that funding will be combined for 2008-2009 (we do have a state law that would have to be changed first), but rather that we will leave things as they are and will make the final decision part of the full five-year plan. That answers the second question – we will operate under a transition year plan that is being written now, and then implement a full state plan for 2008-2013. Public hearings will begin in the fall of 2007.
So many great things are in store for Tech Prep in Texas! The Legislature is taking an active interest in technical education, the Governor’s office knows that the economic future of Texas depends on having a well-qualified, well educated work force, and community and technical colleges are seeing growth in the technical programs they offer.
The one thing I truly regret is that I will not be here to help take College Tech Prep of Texas to the next level. I have enjoyed working with all of you and have met so many great people. You believe in the work you are doing, and the students of Texas have benefited and will continue to benefit from your enthusiasm and guidance.
I hope to eventually return to the education arena, but not for a while. Thank you for teaching me about technical education. I hope our paths will cross again in the future.
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