It’s clear that our economy — even as we bounce back from the recession — isn’t working for everyone. Too many Americans are struggling to get by. Too many have seen their jobs shipped overseas. Too many are unemployed and underemployed. Too many graduate from college with crippling debt or avoid college altogether because of rising costs.

If our nation is going to get ahead and stay ahead, we need to create many paths to good jobs in this 21st-century economy. Career and technical education programs in high schools are promising pathways, giving young people marketable skills and training for well-paying, middle-class jobs.

Read more from Randi Weingarten, AFT President here.