In 1991, the state of Arkansas passed state requirements for the establishment of a tech prep core curriculum for high school programs. The Arkansas program will be developed around the 2+4+2+2 theory, but will mostly focus on the 2+2 plan integrating academic and vocational education. The goal will be to advance the competencies of academic and occupational students in mathematics, science, communications, problem-solving, critical thinking, and higher-order work skills through an applied approach related to work. The plan in Arkansas calls for school districts to form a consortium with area community colleges to help implement the last 2 years of the program and to link high school and postsecondary technical training in a continuous sequence. The tech prep core curriculum will consist of courses in computer technology, applied academics, keyboarding, personal and family life skills, workplace readiness, and career and occupational orientation. Tech prep is needed because today's workplace requires advanced technical skills and an ability to understand complex theories and processes in rapidly changing and emerging technologies. Students, employers, high schools, and postsecondary institutions all benefit from tech prep. To be successful, tech prep programs should involve contextual learning, local partnerships, articulation, career exploration and counseling, associate and/or baccalaureate degree potential, and an evaluated postsecondary curriculum. Success of a tech prep program can be ensured through the cooperation of schools with business and labor and national and local governments. (KC)