Career and technical education (CTE) programs play a vital role in preparing high school students for life after graduation. The Carl D. Perkins Act of 2006 (Perkins) requires states that receive federal CTE funding to align secondary and postsecondary programs, so that students can transition seamlessly from a high school CTE program to a…

"Straight A's: Public Education Policy and Progress" is a biweekly newsletter that focuses on education news and events both in Washington, DC and around the country. The following articles are included in this issue: (1) Kline Introduces State and Local Funding Flexibility Act: Bill Would Allow States and School Districts to Move Money…

"Straight A's: Public Education Policy and Progress" is a biweekly newsletter that focuses on education news and events both in Washington, DC and around the country. The following articles are included in this issue: (1) "Standards Movement Gaining Steam": Duncan Announces Plan to Commit Up to $350 Million for Assessments…

Part-time engagement is a significant feature of senior secondary study for large numbers of students, in a context which includes high level policy pressures to achieve better outcomes for many more and a wider proportion of the schooling population, and significant policy and practice shifts at school, system and accreditation authority levels.…

Outlines the results of a national survey of employers on the quality of secondary education. Findings show the majority of employers surveyed did not feel the schools need improvement to fulfill their hiring needs. (MD)

Considers the role of informal networks in securing occupational advantage for graduates of British "public" schools. Discusses the private sector's official view of the situation and the experiences of recent students. Reports that the official view is of a meritocratic situation, whereas individual students believe personal connections…

Because there is no comprehensive policy in Australia for dealing with the problems or needs of youth, this study surveys research on issues, responsibilities, and services involving youth (in Australia, defined as those ages 15-19). The educational and governmental services provided by the federal and Victoria state governments are emphasized,…

Focus of this guide is a project to identify best practices and programs in preparing foster care youth for career opportunities and economic self-sufficiency. Foster care program context is described as an economy characterized by jobs clustering into two categories (high wage positions with a continuing career pathway and low wage entry-level…

Discussed is how to bridge the gap that separates new high school graduates from good jobs. The obstacles that students face, systems used in other countries for integrating young people into the workforce, the lack of a system in the United States, and key features that are needed for effective school-to-work transition programs are described.…

Discusses gender differences apparent in British public examination entry patterns and outcomes. Questions whether examinations should be designed for equal outcomes and the assumption that assessment techniques may differentially affect performances of males and females. Argues that because other factors such as different experiences and…

This publication provides charts (with backup tables) and text for a basic presentation on current and projected career and employment opportunities in the various fields of science and engineering. The charts are organized under four headings: (1) supply of scientists and engineers; (2) utilization of scientists and engineers; (3) future supply…

Trends in the educational system for students age 16 to 19 are presented. The situation in the United Kingdom is stressed. Changes and improvements in the educational system are suggested. (CW)

Reports on a study of the relationship of several measures of educational quality to labor market outcomes among 4,000 workers in Bogota, Colombia. Finds that the score on university entrance examinations and the university's prestige have a significant positive impact on the earnings and occupational status of adults. (CFR)

Questions one of the assumed benefits of rapid growth in rural areas--the retention of rural youths through finding employment in their home communities. Finds no relationship between migration intentions of 970 high school seniors in rural Utah counties and rapid growth in local energy-related extractive employment. (LFL)

Presents results of a study of relationships between parents' education levels and the level their children's placement in a mathematics tracking system. Reports that college-educated parents are more involved and likely to intervene in their children's placement and decisions. Concludes that parent involvement at critical decision points helps to…