Choosing the right high school pathway is an important—and sometimes challenging—decision for families. In Massachusetts, students are fortunate to have multiple strong options, whether they attend a traditional public high school or pursue Career & Technical Education (CTE) through a technical or vocational high school.

This page is designed to help parents understand what CTE is, how it works, and what opportunities it can open for students. From hands-on career training to rigorous academic preparation, Massachusetts offers pathways that support every learner’s interests, strengths, and future goals. Our goal is to provide clear, balanced information so you can make the choice that feels right for your student.