RE: Workforce Preparation Missing in Action

I agree with Mr. Jones.  I think the system used in the mid-sixties worked much better than what we are doing now.  Courses in woodshop, carpentry, furniture making, metal shop, auto shop, hospitality (working in restaurants and hotels), chefs, etc. were popular and successful.  What about those (few) students who took these courses but should have prepared for college?  One area where California education shines is in providing a second chance.  We have a widespread, inexpensive, and excellent junior (community) college system.  I have taught evenings in community college and I have had students that I failed in high school.  I don't recommend getting a dead end job out of high school but nothing provides better motivation.  The second-time-around students I had in JC evening classes were very successful.