I think the idea of the technical school is what worries some folks; being 'shunted' off on a non-college path before you've had two more years to get serious about your schooling. But the idea doesn't sound like they would force kids out, just offer the option. I just read a Ruf interview where she was talking about just this thing: finding ways to make going the route of working 'with your hands' an honorable path - not a last resort. It would make more economic sense for a lot of people who would prefer that path - get a leg up on training for a job as an electrician, a plumber, etc. Move more quickly into a level of competency in a field /achieve higher earning potential earlier.
I am sure she says it better than I am stating it:
http://www.ednews.org/articles/452/...ed-Children-Being-Left-Behind/Page1.html
