The Influence of Federal Policy Objectives on Program Completion Rates at CTE-Focused Institutions

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Workforce Training (Table 6)

Abstract

In this study I examine the history of modifications made by community colleges to their Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs following the enactment of the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) in 2018. My goal is to assess the impact of these changes on program completion rates. I found that CTE-focused colleges made substantially more program adjustments compared to traditional colleges immediately following the passage of Perkins V. This period also saw a substantial increase in the number of all completers, including from underrepresented groups in CTE programs. My findings suggest that Perkins V may have contributed to improved access and outcomes for underserved students in CTE programs.

Authors

• Michelle E. Bartlett, Old Dominion University

• Caleb Thompson, The Ohio State University