What is College Tech Prep?

TECH-PREP means PREParation for high-TECHnology careers

The Partnership is designed to provide a variety of services to all member institutions which directly support the development and implementation of high-quality academic and technical programs that span high school and college.  The primary goal of the Partnership is to enhance the available workforce by improving the educational opportunities for the citizens of Deep East Texas.

A Tech Prep education program is a combined secondary and post secondary program, beginning in high school and continuing through two years of post secondary education, which: 

(a) leads to an associate degree with advanced technical skills or a two year certificate;

(b) provides technical preparation in at least one field of engineering technology, applied science, mechanical, industrial or practical trade, or agriculture, health, or business;

(c) builds student competence in mathematics, science, and communications (including applied academics) through a sequential course of study;

(d) is developed utilizing input from secondary schools, post secondary institutions, business and industry; and

(e) leads to placement in employment.

Tech Prep programs must include the following elements to be eligible for federal funding:

• articulation agreement
• appropriate curriculum design
• curriculum development
• in-service teacher training 
• counselor training
• equal access for special populations and preparatory services

The partnership works under the direction of a multi-agency partnership which includes, but is not limited to, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Texas Education Agency with authorization by the Master Plan for Vocational and Technical Education. Angelina College serves as the fiscal agent for the Deep East Texas College/Tech Prep Partnership.

Tech Prep's goals are to reduce school dropout rates, increase student's academic skills in mathematics, English, and science, improve student's readiness for further work or study, increase the number of high school graduates pursuing post-secondary education, increase graduates of two year college occupational degree programs, and increase the number of skilled workers for area businesses in mid-level career and technical positions.

The activities of the consortium are designed to accomplish the goals outlined above. One important and highly visible component of a Tech Prep program is the vertical alignment of curriculum through articulation agreements. School districts and  higher education institutions commit to articulation agreements which guarantees  that students receive college credit for high school courses.

Another key element is to provide professional development activities for teachers which focus on integrating workforce skills across the entire curriculum. In addition to curriculum development, the consortium can provide support for districts as they educate students about future employment projections so the students can make informed decisions as they plan for post secondary education.