Rep. John Schlegel of Lebanon has been appointed as the chairman of the Subcommittee on Career and Technical Education (CTE) within the House Education Committee. Schlegel, who is in his second term with the committee, was chosen for this role by House Majority Leader Jesse Topper and Education Committee Chairman Bryan Cutler. They cited his knowledge, leadership, and appreciation for vocational education as reasons for his selection.
Schlegel, now retired from a career in education and administration in Lebanon County, considers the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (LCCTC) an essential resource for local students. “Interest in vocational education is growing sharply while college costs continue to skyrocket,” Schlegel stated. He emphasized that vocational education offers students valuable alternatives: “Many of today’s students are looking for choices, and vocational education is a game changer. Our CTCs provide them with the opportunity to acquire a skilled trade in a variety of fields, which can prepare them for a family-sustaining job.”
The subcommittee led by Schlegel will focus on evaluating policies related to vocational education and exploring ways to expand its availability throughout Pennsylvania. The demand for vocational classes has resulted in waiting lists across numerous school districts.
