LANSING – Noting that students have different needs and goals, State Representative Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch) today introduced a plan that will allow high school students to concentrate on vocational, technical and career-preparation classes to prepare them for good-paying jobs after they graduate.
"Many of our best and brightest students want to become welders, automobile mechanics, carpenters and other vital tradesmen and tradeswomen," Sheltrown said. "My plan will give these students the opportunity to choose a path that prepares them for vocational training after high school. Forcing them to take classes that are not relevant to their career goals is a waste of everyone's time and resources."
Sheltrown's plan will add another option for high school students beyond the current Michigan Merit Curriculum graduation requirements. The plan will require students to complete the following:
At least 3 credits of math, including algebra I and geometry or their equivalents
At least 4 credits of English
At least 2 credits of science
At least 2 credits of social science
At least 1 credit of health and physical education
At least 3 credits in a career and technical preparation sequence
At least 1 additional flexible credit
"Cookie-cutter graduation requirements do not adequately prepare all students for life after high school," Sheltrown said. "While many of our students will choose to attend a 4-year college or university, others will pursue a career that requires vocational training. This plan will ensure those students are given the opportunities they need and aren't left behind."