November 24, 2008
Monday PM

Thank you to Charles Edwardson for broaching the voc-ed situation at K-High. I am a subscriber to the "every job is important and it takes a special person to do it" theory. I find that not only in Ketchikan, but all around is still the myth that if a child entertains higher academic schooling that his/her life will be rewarded somehow more richly.

Ketchikan is a rare jewel in that it's proximity to the sea and it's generational heritage is rich and fairly intact.

It is a shame, though that in the designing and implementing of the curriculum in the upper grades is still geared towards so labeled "white collar"studies.

I have noticed that young people who are given a good solid base and the ability to make good choices in the lower grades are less likely to make bad decisions or just GIVE UP at school.

We need to recognize that nearly 80% of us make up the trades and the better prepared we are when we get thrown from the nest the better off we are. Let kids know ALL of their options from early on and do not discourage and more importantly do not try to mold to our expectations their path.

We are on hard times on a global basis and need to hold up---we need to let go of stereotypes and let those kids pursue things that keep them interested, involved and end result..employed.

Best regards,

Amy L. Schroeder
Spokane, WA

About: "Former Ketchikan resident--mother of 2 K-High grads--career service industry employee"

Received November 18, 2008 - Published November 24, 2008

Related Viewpoint:

Dropout Rate By Charles Edwardson

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