Whenever a group of CTE folks gets together, we inevitably get to a point where the conversation turns to a discussion of CTE’s image. We lamant why others don’t get us. How can we change the perception and image of CTE? How do we convince parents and policymakers that CTE is rigorous and creates options?
We often think that changing the public’s perception of CTE requires major funding to conduct ads, focus groups, and formal campaigns. While that would be nice, have you considered the power of the keyboard?
Patty Cantu, NASDCTEc Board member and State Director of Michigan, wrote a commentary that was recently picked up by the Detroit News.
So let me lay out a summertime challenge to the CTE community – Let’s all follow Patty’s lead and take a little time to craft a commentary on what CTE is doing in our state, region or school.  Share our stories and data. Paint a new image of modern CTE . Can you imagine if these commentaries got picked up across the country? I can see the potential of extraordinary things happening with a viral campaign. Let’s begin, state-by-state, community-by-community. Let’s get the word out!