21st Century Skills

Career and Technical Education (CTE) believes a comprehensive education culminates in 21st century readiness for college, careers and civic responsibility. We believe in students prepared to flourish in a dynamic, global economy. CTE courses exemplify the intentional synthesis of technical knowledge and skills, traditional academics, and 21st century skills as outlined by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills. Advanced economies demand workers able to respond to complex problems, communicate effectively, manage information, work in new teams, produce new knowledge, invent and create. 21st century skills increase the rigor and relevance of leadership and employability integration in CTE courses.

Leadership development has been an integral component of CTE courses in Washington for decades. The leadership skills learned in extra and co‐curricular activities makes an enormously positive impact on the lives of students. Leadership activities have long been one of the items that make CTE courses different (and more valuable) from other courses. CTE has a commitment to continual improvement and continual transformation of programs to meet the changing needs of employers.