| BOSTON – Pioneer Institute Executive Director Jim Stergios submitted testimony highlighting the success of Massachusetts’ vocational-technical high schools and urging policymakers to focus on expanding capacity rather than altering existing admissions policies.
For nearly two decades, Pioneer has conducted in-depth research on voc-tech education. These schools consistently match or exceed the academic performance of traditional high schools, while serving a greater percentage of low-income and special needs students. Their unique model, which balances academic instruction with hands-on technical training, prepares students for high-demand careers—often without the burden of college debt.
The testimony emphasized that recent state policy changes have already improved equity in admissions, and voc-tech schools have responded by adjusting their practices, enhancing outreach, and implementing anti-bias training. Still, the core challenge remains: demand far outpaces supply. With as many as 11,000 students on waiting lists, it’s clear that more seats are urgently needed.
Pioneer’s message is simple:
Voc-tech schools are a proven model of excellence and equity. The state should build on this success by expanding access—not disrupting what works.
We’ll continue to share updates and advocate for solutions that give more students the opportunity to thrive.
About Pioneer Institute
Pioneer empowers Americans with choices and opportunities to live freely and thrive. Working with state policymakers, we use expert research, educational initiatives, legal action and coalition-building to advance human potential in four critical areas: K-12Education, Health, Economic Opportunity, and American Civic Values. |
