A Philadelphia teacher is making sure that his students have the basic vocational skills before they leave elementary school, writes Kristen A. Graham for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Every day, Evin Jarrett teaches 10-, 11-, and 12-year-olds at Mayfair Elementary School the foundational elements of career and technical education, including elements of plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, and masonry.

“I want the conversation started about middle school CTE,” said Jarrett. “The earlier we engage them, the better it is.”

Jarrett started working as a contractor while he was attending Cheyney University. Soon he realized that he loved the job and all the benefits that came with it and decided to continue working instead of returning to school.

After a 20-year career, an injury forced him to change professions. He decided to turn to education.

The program he teaches at Mayfair is technically a “career exploration” program, since CTE programs in Pennsylvania require state approval and 1,040 hours of instructional time. Still, his students can earn several of the same certifications high school students do.

Jarrett also often has speakers from various trades and backgrounds visit his class and talk to students about their career paths.

Read more about Evin Jarrett and his approach with his students at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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