Special Populations and CTE
In Career and Technical Education (CTE), special populations are those groups of students identified by the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) as needing targeted support to ensure equitable access and success in CTE programs. The Recruiting and Supporting Special Populations in Career and Technical Education Toolkit was developed for use by Kansas school districts to meet this need.
Here are the special populations defined under Perkins V:
- Individuals with disabilities
- Individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including low-income youth and adults
- Individuals preparing for nontraditional fields (e.g., women in welding, men in nursing)
- Single parents, including single pregnant women
- Out-of-workforce individuals
- English learners
- Homeless individuals
- Youth in or aged out of the foster care system
- Youth with a parent on active duty in the armed forces
Resources
This section includes resources designed to support educators and school districts in effectively serving special populations within Career and Technical Education (CTE). The materials provide guidance, best practices, and compliance tools to help ensure equitable access, participation, and success for all students under Perkins V requirements.
CTE and Special Education Students: Frequently Asked Questions
This document answers common questions about serving students with disabilities in CTE programs. It covers topics such as eligibility, accommodations, instruction, and collaboration between CTE and special education staff.
Recruiting and Supporting Special Populations in Career and Technical Education Toolkit
This toolkit provides strategies, tools, and best practices to help districts recruit, support, and retain students from special populations in CTE programs. It is designed to support equitable access, participation, and success.
Special Populations in Career and Technical Education
This resource provides an overview of special populations as defined under Perkins V and explains key considerations for serving these students within CTE programs.
