College-Bound or Headed for Workforce Training—High School Graduates Need Similar Math, Reading Skills

We recommend that all high school students experience a common academic program, one that prepares them for both college and workforce training, regardless of their post-graduation plans. Although the contexts within which these skills are taught and tested may differ, the level of expectation for all students should be the same.

According to the report, our education system should give every student the knowledge and skills they need to have meaningful options when they finish high school. These skills can be taught within rigorous high school classes, whether they be academic or career-focused. We can’t afford to have one expectation for students who plan to attend college and another for those who plan to enter the workforce or workforce training programs after high school. If we educate some students to a lesser standard than others, we narrow their options to jobs that, in today’s economy, no longer pay well enough to support a family.