Argues that vocational education is becoming more popular in high schools and gives several reasons why it deserves a place in the comprehensive high school as a way of diminishing the effects of race and class on the achievement of youth. (SK)

There is ample evidence that the structural characteristics of American secondary education are not well suited to vocational education. The solution may require a redesign of the structure of secondary schools, especially their governance. (SK)

Lists the attributes of quality vocational education programs: depth of instruction, closeness to industry, and response to labor market demands. Indicates why it is difficult for comprehensive high schools to offer high quality programs, due to size of enrollment, administrative leadership, and personnel policy. (SK)