Concerns over significant cuts to Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs dominated discussions at the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board Special Meeting on April 12, 2025. A veteran CTE teacher, who has served in the district for 24 years, highlighted a troubling trend: the number of full-time CTE teachers at K High has plummeted from eight in 2019 to just four and a half this year, raising alarms about the future of vocational education in the community.

The teacher expressed deep concern over the potential for further reductions, noting that staff were recently tasked with updating the course catalog for the upcoming school year. However, as students began selecting classes, many programs that were expected to be offered—such as aviation, engineering, architecture, maritime, culinary arts, and even Spanish—were mysteriously absent from the catalog. This unexpected omission left students and teachers alike in a state of confusion and disappointment.

The teacher recounted how, despite assurances that certain classes would be available, students were unable to find them during the selection process. This situation not only affects students' educational choices but also places additional strain on the teachers who were prepared to instruct these courses. The meeting underscored the urgent need for clarity and support for CTE programs, which play a crucial role in preparing students for future careers. As the district navigates these challenges, the community is left wondering what the future holds for vocational education in Ketchikan.