A diverse coalition of parents, educators, students, alumni, vocational and agricultural employers, union members, small & large business owners, school committee members, school administrators, and municipal leaders has formed to express strong opposition to any amendments proposed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) or the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The Massachusetts Vocational Technical Coalition supports House Bill HD.4510, recognizing the need to examine and potentially push back against proposed changes to admissions policies by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) that we believe would negatively impact the integrity and accessibility of Chapter 74 schools and CTE programs. By establishing this task force, we would have the assurance of continued success of the vocational-technical agricultural education system and maintain local control over admissions, allowing these institutions to remain focused on students truly dedicated to pursuing skilled trades and agricultural careers.

This united front stems from a shared concern that alterations to current policies would negatively impact the established success and accessibility of vocational and agricultural education within the state. We are committed to preserving the integrity and effectiveness of these programs, which they believe are vital to both individual student success and the broader economic health of the Commonwealth.