INFORMATIONAL

  Attached is a copy of the 1993-94 Statewide Summary Report of
  the Virginia System of Core Standards and Measures of
  Performance for Secondary Vocational Education Programs. The
  system serves as the centerpiece for program accountability,
  whereas school divisions report annually on the performance
  and progress of vocational education programs based on the
  locally developed evaluation plan. 
  
  The report lists seventeen highlights which serve as
  indicators that Virginia is providing quality vocational
  education programs for students in the Commonwealth. (See
  pages i and ii.)  Additionally, the report summarizes business
  and industry's expectations of Virginia's high school
  graduates.  Employers of  the vocational program completers
  participating in the follow-up study provided ten
  recommendations for the educational system to better prepare
  students for the workforce.  (See page 28.) 
  
  This is the first performance report associated with the
  system of core standards and measures and will serve as a
  baseline for vocational education programs in Virginia.  The
  system will continue to focus on increasing the standards and
  performance of students and using the results to guide
  continuous program improvement.
  
  Requests for additional copies or questions concerning this
  report  may be addressed to Dr. Neils W. Brooks, Director,
  Office of Vocational, Adult, and Employment Training Services
  at 804/225-2847 or through VA PEN, nbrooks@pen.k12.va.us.
  
  WCB,Jr/jts
  
  
  Attachment:  A COPY OF THIS MEMO AND ITS ATTACHMENTS WILL
               BE SENT TO THE SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE.