Editorial: Skills-based education just as important as college prep
High school juniors recently took the SAT college entrance exam while seniors are making their final choices for school next year. It's an annual ritual at the highly touted high schools throughout the suburbs - the culmination of what many have been told is the ultimate reward of a suburban education - getting into a good college or university. But there are many students who don't fit that mold, for whom college just isn't the best option.
And more and more, area high school educators are recognizing they must cater not only to those moving on to college but also those who still want a good job though it may not necessarily require an advanced degree. It's an important piece of the education puzzle and we are happy to see it being addressed.
Monday's Daily Herald featured just such programs at Elgin and Hampshire high schools in Kane County. Welding labs at those two schools now are certified testing facilities - the first in the Midwest and among only three high schools in the country to be accredited.
It's a nod to the fact that welding jobs are in high demand and the schools are recognizing that some of their students can reap an immediate benefit if given the chance.
"We are kind of ideally poised to serve the industry," said Nick Moran, a certified welding instructor at Elgin High and technical specialist for Kane County. He will train teachers at both schools this summer to become certified welding instructors.
"There is a huge demand for manufacturing-grade, entry-level welders in this area," Moran told the Daily Herald's Madhu Krishnamurthy, adding that Elgin is a "golden corridor" of manufacturing industries producing metals, plastics, pharmaceuticals and food.
It's important for high schools and community colleges to work together with area businesses to provide the training needed to fill those jobs. It's refreshing that high school leaders in particular are understanding the value of providing this education to noncollege-bound students. Just as gifted and advanced programs are important for some, industrial arts classes are just as vital.
The first update of Elgin High's welding lab in 20 years was completed in February and the $354,000 funded through state and federal funds. At Hampshire High, a few safety upgrades were made to the facility that for 10 years has partnered with Elgin Community College to teach welding.
Schools throughout the area now have a nearby program to emulate as they too look to provide a skills-based education to students.