HS Diploma, 2-Year College, Apprenticeship — Which Is the Best Path? New ‘Right to Know’ Bills in 6 States Would Give Students More Data About Options (and Outcomes) – The 74
The “one size fits all” model of education is long gone, and good riddance. No two students are on the exact same pathway through school and into the workforce, and today they have more and more opportunities to find the best choices for themselves. Whether it’s a traditional high school or a career and technical education program, whether it’s into a four-year or a community college, the military or an apprenticeship, students and families need information to make the best decisions toward their own goals.
At the same time, state policymakers are grappling with real challenges facing the school-to-workforce pipeline. Rising student debt. Businesses with empty positions. Graduates having a hard time finding jobs. Colleges that don’t offer courses that keep up with today’s economy.
Fortunately, data can show state leaders how widespread these challenges are and allow them to pinpoint solutions. And those leaders have a role to play in making available information on pathways from school to workforce and their potential outcomes. By linking the data across agencies and sharing it, states can provide students and their families with the information they need to make informed decisions.