In the quest for student success, there is a clear and compelling "secret weapon" hiding in plain sight: Career and Technical Education (CTE). While the overall graduation rate for Utah's 2025 cohort reached an impressive 89.8%, students who "concentrated" in CTE (completing a sequence of related courses) soared far higher, achieving a staggering 96.6% graduation rate.

This isn't just a minor statistical bump; it is a fundamental shift in how students engage with their education. But why is the gap so significant?

 

The Power of "The Why"

For many students, traditional academic subjects can feel abstract. CTE flips the script by providing immediate, real-world context. When a student in a Murray City School District health science pathway learns biology, they aren't just memorizing cells—they are learning how those cells impact patient care in a clinical setting.

Data shows that for every CTE course a student takes in the 11th or 12th grade, their likelihood of graduating on time increases by 2%, while their odds of dropping out fall by 1.2%. By the time they become a "concentrator," they have found a "why" for their education that keeps them in their seats and focused on the finish line.

 

Building "Durable Skills"

 

Beyond the technical training—whether it’s in digital media, construction, or hospitality—CTE is a laboratory for what experts call "durable skills." In a 2026 workforce increasingly influenced by AI, the skills developed in CTE labs are exactly what employers are looking for:

• Critical Thinking: Troubleshooting a complex engine or a line of code.

• Collaboration: Working as a team to complete a capstone project.

• Professionalism: Meeting industry standards and earning professional certifications before high school ends.

 

A Stronger Finish

As we look toward the Class of 2027 and beyond, the message for parents and students is clear: participation in CTE isn’t just about learning a trade; it’s about ensuring a successful high school experience. CTE students show higher attendance, fewer course failures, and a much higher rate of post-secondary enrollment.

By choosing a CTE pathway, Murray students aren't just preparing for a job—they are guaranteeing themselves a seat at the graduation ceremony and a head start on whatever comes next. Go here to learn more about Murray’s comprehensive CTE offerings.