Written by: Ron Jackson
If you ask the students in Lakeland what a vocational trade is, most likely they would have no idea what you are talking about.
Students feel that the internet is the only way to obtain a future. This is a blatant lie. The internet is more trouble than good. Social media sites are having more problems recently with sensoring and lies. Social media is not personal and offers nothing financially for entrepreneurs. It is a gossip line and a waste of time.
What is good, you may ask? Good is putting away the computers and using your brain and your hands to be constructive and not destructive.
Schools need to bring back vocational trades so that our students will be the owners of their own businesses. Also, it will keep the students focused on a bright and hopeful future!
Schools need to give the students lessons in home economics which would include sewing and cooking. This will give Lakeland our future chefs and restaurant owners. This will give Lakeland seamstresses and fashion designers and interior designers.
Schools need to bring back cosmetology classes. Lakeland will have many more entrepreneurs in the salon realm. Many will be entrepreneurs and own their own salons.
Schools need to bring back automotive classes and shops where students learn everything about engines, and how the car functions. Lakeland needs entrepreneurs who will own their own automotive businesses. They will appreciate the classic cars and will learn how to restore automobiles.
Schools need to teach woodshop and metal shop. This will give Lakeland more carpenters, builders, and architects. For those who like welding have than a chance to work for great companies. Most employers require you to have a welding certificate, which you receive when you complete the Certified Welder program. This program tests welders on procedures that are used in the sheet metal, structural steel, petroleum pipelines, and chemical refinery welding industries.
These vocational trades do not necessarily mean that a college education is required. This is a huge savings for your students! Only a high school diploma is needed and/or a few vocational classes and/or a certification in the trade.
Our schools, both private and public, need to start really investing into our children now! A 4-year college degree is not needed to be an entrepreneur and a business owner. A vocational career is realistic and positive.
I am in hopes that school board members, head masters, and principals read this article and put it into action. This is 100% positive for the future of our children and Lakeland.