[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 79 (Wednesday, June 21, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S5552]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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       RECOGNITION OF THE CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

 Mr. GORTON. Mr. President, it is my pleasure to talk to you 
today about the Career and Technical Education Program in Walla Walla, 
Washington. Students in this program are learning skills that are 
highly important in the working world and will give them a leg up on 
the competition as they enter the workforce. This program has made a 
tremendous impact on the school's learning environment and also gives 
students an incentive to stay in school.
  Fifteen years ago, the faculty at Walla Walla High School wanted to 
create a program in which students would gain practical knowledge to 
supplement what is learned in the traditional classroom setting. The 
Career and Technical Education Program, created with the help of grant 
money, gives students the opportunity to gain technical skills along 
with the school's curriculum.
  For example, students enrolled in anatomy or physiology class can put 
their knowledge to work by taking Sports Medicine where they learn 
about treating sports injuries, CPR and other first aid skills. In 
addition, technology labs have been interwoven into the curriculum to 
teach robotics, flight simulation, and bridge analysis to enhance math 
and physics classes. Through this programs, students can see a direct 
link between their work in the classroom to a potential job.
  Gerald Cummins, Director of Career and Technical Education, says the 
Career and Technical Education Program has drastically improved the 
college bound population in Walla Walla over the last fifteen years. 
``Fifteen years ago, there were barely any kids continuing on to the 
college level. Now most kids are achieving college credits through our 
program before even being accepted into college.''
  The faculty at Walla Walla High School also has established strong 
communication between parents, the school and community members, giving 
students a sense of support that will encourage them to continue in 
their academic pursuits.
  Much credit should be given to the vision of the Walla Walla School 
Board and staff who have worked to ensure high standards of teaching. 
They have found new ways to improve upon their curriculum and provided 
excellent opportunities for each student to expand his or her 
horizons.

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