TITLE State-Level Vocational Administrator Perceptions Relevant to Career-Oriented Education in the Middle

A survey was conducted to determine the status of career-oriented education programs at the middle-grade level and perceptions of state education agency officials with responsibilities in the program areas. Mailed questionnaires were returned by 43 (86 percent) state directors of education and 290 (82 percent) supervisors in 8 career-oriented program areas. Findings indicated most states offered career-oriented programs at the middle-grade level, but very little enrollment data were available. The programs were aimed primarily at career exploration and development of practical skills. Teachers in any of the program areas were rarely required to be certified specifically in middle-grade education, although many states required certification in a vocational education area. Local and state funding sources were used more than federal sources. Most directors and supervisors believed that career-oriente