The electronics applied technology curriculum at the Nashua High School is at risk of being canceled. Electronics is one of many career choices taught at the NHS Center of Applied Technology (CAT). This was known as Vocational Education in the past.
During the past 8 years the program has gone through 4 instructors. The program has never been well enrolled, peaking at around 20 students in the 2 year program. Some years the instructor would make it through a good bit of the theory, other years it was more of a kit building lab class. During one of the more positive years computers were brought in and interfaced with assembly/test platforms. The room the classes are held in is not very attractive and the equipment is in various stages of disrepair. Funding for all CAT programs is down this year.
The program has lost its instructor as of mid- year and is currently running with subs. The CAT division lost its director this year also and the replacement is just coming up to speed. Enrollment for next year happens soon. If electronics doesn’t get enough students the program will be dropped. Research has shown course selection is made mainly by word of mouth from students who have already taken the course. This doesn’t bode well for courses taught by substitutes and no focus. This may be the last year.
I am hoping to breath some life into the situation. I am on the industry advisory council for the electronics curriculum at the High School. Potentially this group could take on a more active role with the students. I think that the excitement of electronics could be brought to the class room in time to keep enrollment up next year and possibly save the program.
I think the Nashua area has enough need for electronic technicians to justify an effort. I am hoping that someone in NARC may have an interest in this endeavor as it cannot be done with existing resources.
I have no magic solution, not even any good ideas. I thought, however, that the ham radio community may be able to help. Here are the beginnings of a list of ways a NARC member may help.