News Summary
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited Murrell Dobbins High School to promote the importance of vocational education and career pathways for students. During the visit, he engaged with students in digital media and graphic design programs, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to enhancing career and technical education (CTE). Shapiro also announced a proposal for increased funding to support these initiatives and highlighted the broader goals of providing diverse educational opportunities across Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia – Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited Murrell Dobbins Career & Technical Education High School, emphasizing the state’s commitment to enhancing vocational education. The governor’s visit included discussions with students engaged in Digital Media and Graphic Design classes as they worked on projects related to video, digital imagery, and virtual reality.
Shapiro reiterated the significance of accessible education and the development of vocational pathways, which he views as essential for the success of all Pennsylvanians. His administration has prioritized investments in career and technical education (CTE) as a way to provide students with skills necessary for today’s workforce.
Murrell Dobbins High School caters to students who may opt out of pursuing four-year college degrees, instead focusing on offering real-world experience across various fields. Some notable programs available at Dobbins include biotechnology, barbering, digital media, and culinary arts. During the governor’s visit, student Savannah Black expressed how the school has allowed her to explore her creativity and personal expression.
In addition to Shapiro, the event featured remarks from educational leaders such as Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, who discussed the historical stigma associated with vocational schools and the necessity for diverse educational pathways. Dobbins’ Principal Shervon Thompson, a proud graduate of the institution, spoke about how her education at Dobbins played a pivotal role in shaping her career.
Neera Tanden, President of the Center for American Progress, highlighted the importance of investing in career pathways that enable students to achieve their professional goals. As part of his budget proposal, Shapiro has suggested an additional $5.5 million specifically for CTE initiatives. This funding aims to enhance educational opportunities around Pennsylvania.
Since Gov. Shapiro assumed office, nearly $2 billion in new K-12 education funding has been allocated across the state, with a noted 50% increase in CTE funding. As a result, an estimated 3,000 more students have enrolled in CTE programs statewide, demonstrating growing interest and investment in these educational offerings.
Furthermore, the governor’s administration has introduced 165 new apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, attracting over 15,000 participants. These initiatives aim to create pathways for students to gain hands-on experience and training while still in school.
Murrell Dobbins has successfully secured multiple state grants, including $1.46 million designated for instructional equipment, along with funding for mobile agriculture learning stations, which enhance learning opportunities available to students.
During the visit, Shapiro underscored the need for critical thinking within the classroom and championed the creation of multiple pathways that can assist students in achieving a prosperous future. This aligns with the state’s broader efforts to reform CTE and remove barriers for student success.
The event also included a panel discussion featuring various educational leaders advocating for increased investment in CTE programs. Their aim is to ensure that students receive not only academic instruction but also the skills required to excel in their chosen fields. Additionally, the push for enhanced CTE funding corresponds with Pennsylvania’s participation in the AFT’s Education and Apprenticeship Accelerator.
Both Mayor Cherelle Parker and Superintendent Tony Watlington expressed their commitment to creating a supportive environment for all students, reinforcing the significance of removing obstacles to educational success in Philadelphia.
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Additional Resources
- City & State PA
- Wikipedia: Vocational Education
- Fox43
- Google Search: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro
- Philly Tribune
- Google Scholar: Career and Technical Education in Pennsylvania
- CBS News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Daily Item
- Google News: Career Technical Education Pennsylvania
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
