Tuesday, January 13, 2009

In Support of Vocational Education

Let me begin by saying that I am an advocate for a strong Vocational & Technology Education program as part of the overall high school experience. A very good friend of mine just retired from a very successful, 34 year career as a high school Social Studies teacher. He is also a graduate of the equally well respected Brooklyn Vocational and Technical High School. A highly selective, exam only, public high school in New York City.

The ability to excel academically and success in the multitude of vocational and technology courses offered in our schools isn't mutually exclusive! Many of my colleagues make the mistake of looking down their nose at vocational courses as not being of the same rigor as advanced course offerings in science and math. If you've ever tried to fix your own computer, upgrade an electrical panel in your house, or calculate the proper diameter of a waste pipe, you might think otherwise.

For many students, the opportunity to work in the area of technology is rewarding and challenging. Participation in a vocational program in no way means less than participation in a traditional advanced "academic" program. I also think we should end the distinction of academic vs. vocational. If you've ever looked at a computer science or an electrical theory textbook, you'll understand that the distinction is mute.

It is especially important to advocate for technology programs during these times of fiscal restraint. Often times, vocational and technical programs are the first to be cut. This would be a terrible mistake. When you prepare your budget recommendations for next year take a second look at your vocational and technology programs. They are a strong component of the overall school experience and not just ancillary to your core course offerings.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Writing a Blog is No Easy Task

As you probably have noticed I haven't updated this site in six months. My only excuse is a lack of focus. I never realized just how much work went into creating a new blog every week. I've developed a whole new level of respect for those writers who must create a well thought out news or human interest piece on a regular basis. It is truly a lot of work.

Every time I thought about writing for this site I came up with a dozen things to do instead. This doesn't bode well for my commitment to the writing process. In the future, I will try and do better.

The Principal Guy