Abstract
It has been shown in the literature (Dougherty et al., 2018; Fletcher & Tyson, 2017; Giani, 2017; Gottfried & Plasman, 2018; Hemelt et al., 2019; Neild et al., 2015; Wagner et al., 2016) that Career and Technical Education (CTE) can enhance employability and socio-economic advancement regardless of demographic. It follows that these programs should also serve well traditionally underserved groups, including English Learners (ELs). Despite Perkins legislation’s mandated increased access for these groups, EL participation in high school CTE has been generally low due to linguistic and structural barriers, as well as a deficit orientation, among other things. However, High School A, which hosts a diverse EL population and successful CTE program, appears to be an exception. This exploratory intrinsic case study is aimed to identify exemplary strategies and policies that have been implemented at High School A that support continued EL access to CTE and successes in attaining College and Career Readiness (CCR). This study seeks to provide insights to schools, districts, and legislators in best practices to promote EL advancement and create a skilled, multilingual workforce. Data were collected through document reviews and interviews with four educational personnel from High School A: an assistant principal, school counselor, EL instructional leader, and a CTE instructional leader.Findings reveal effective recruitment methods, robust English language development support using Echevarria et al.’s (2008) Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) model, and additional supportive resources like EL paraprofessionals. The school culture, characterized by effective leadership, teacher buy-in, inclusivity, and data-driven decision-making, played a significant role. Persistent barriers have also been identified, to suggest the need for further recommendations and research.
Keywords: career and technical education, English learners, college and career readiness, Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol, Perkins Act