Official Site of The State of New Jersey
The Opportunity Center (OC) provides data-driven, research-backed professional development and technical assistance to secondary schools and county colleges operating or planning to implement career and technical education (CTE) programs. The OC supports schools in strengthening their institutional capacity to expand access and opportunities for special populations pursuing high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand CTE careers. Schools can voluntarily engage with OC services to proactively address specific challenges or develop comprehensive strategic plans. All OC workshops align with the goals of the Perkins V-required Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA).
Goals and Objectives
- Increase the awareness of CTE programs among parents, students, and school district and county college personnel as viable pathways to assist special population students to prepare for the 21st century workplace and the global economy.
- Increase the recruitment, participation, and retention of special population students in high-quality CTE programs in order to broaden their options and opportunities and prepare them to secure high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand employment.
- Decrease disproportionate enrollment and increase successful completion of special population students participating in CTE programs and programs of study.
Who Are Special Populations
Special populations, as defined by Perkins V are:
- Individuals with disabilities.
- Individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including low-income youth and adults.
- Individuals preparing for nontraditional fields.
- Single parents, including single pregnant women.
- Out-of-workforce individuals.
- Homeless individuals.
- Youth who are in, or have aged out of, the foster care system.
- Youth with a parent who is a member of the armed forces and is on active duty.
- Individuals with other barriers to educational achievement, including individuals with limited English proficiency
Articles and Publications:
- Making Good on the Promise (8 Part Series)
- Broadening the Path: Design Principles for Middle Grades CTE
Media:
DISCLAIMER: Please note that these materials are provided as resources, and for informational purposes only. Neither the New Jersey Department of Education nor its officers, employees or agents specifically endorse, recommend, or favor this particular entity over any other, and make no representation about the quality of service to be provided.