Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1476161
and rebuilding engines, brake jobs, wheel alignment and more. "It's exciting to see the pendulum start- ing to swing back for hands-on programs at my school," says Harrelson, a Black Oak Mine Teachers Association member. "I love seeing students learning to be suc- cessful in the workplace and in life." Harrelson is among many educators feeling hopeful that support is grow- ing for CTE programs. A big reason is new funding. In addition to state CTE incentive grants and Perkins funding (a federal act to improve CTE programs, integrate academic and career-technical instruction, serve special populations, a n d m e e t g e n d e r e q u i ty n e e d s) , t h e governor has proposed $1.5 billion for C o l l e ge a n d C a re e r Pa thw ay s i n th e 2022-23 state budget. If the budget is approved, funds will b e sp e n t o v e r f o u r y e a r s t o st a r t o r expand pathways related to: technol- ogy (including computer science, green t echnolog y and engin eering ); h ealth care; education (including early edu- cation); and climate-related fields for grades K-14, based on developing local partnerships that bring together school systems, higher education, employers and community stakeholders. " Yes, there is a renewed interest in CTE and funding these vital programs has increasingly become a priority," says Gunnersen. "I think CTE is slowly making Students get hands-on experience with livestock animals in Mt. SAC's animal science program. Program faculty, below, left to right: Jennifer Loredo, Jamie Phillips and Audra Lopez. S T U D E N T S I N this community college program earn certificates and two-year degrees in horse ranch management, livestock management, livestock production and pet science. On the school's 150-acre farm there are cattle, sheep, horses and pigs. Students learn the art of wrangling an animal in the "handling and restraint" class. "We get a lot of beginner students — some who have never touched an animal — and they take a class because it seems interesting and they need an elective," says Professor Audra Lopez. " They end up loving it and pursuing a career that they had never considered. Some have gone on to become veterinarians." The program offers internships with local businesses such as a feed store and veterinary clinic. Students gain a pathway to four- year agricultural college programs if they desire. In addition to Lopez, the CTE courses are taught by Professors Jamie Phillips and Jennifer Loredo. All are members of Mt. San Antonio Faculty Association. "I am learning so much about livestock production/management, which is something I never thought I would get to experience in this urban area," says student Lexi Nighman. "I plan to start my own beef cattle operation someday." Animal Science Program Mt. San Antonio College WA L N U T " We get a lot of students who take a class because it seems interesting and they need an elective. They end up loving it and pursuing a career they had never considered." —Audra Lopez, Mt. San Antonio Faculty Association 28 cta.org Eric Harrelson