Many people have contributed a great deal to the production of this document and to the continued efforts of the National Center for Research in Vocational Education to provide technical assistance that serves states in improving accountability and student achievement.
This document was prepared under the guidance of Ron Castaldi, Jackie Friederich, Ricardo Hernandez, Laura Messenger, and Pariece Wilkins of the Office of Vocational and Adult Education, U.S. Department of Education, who have provided valuable support to the production and evolution of this document as it has taken shape during the year. In addition, we have received invaluable advice and leadership from Rodney Kelly of Kentucky, Joanna Kister of Ohio, Chris Lyons of Maine, and Russ McCampbell of Missouri, all state directors of vocational education who generously gave of their time by serving on our advisory council.
Thanks are also due to Kerri Limbrecht and Stephanie Surles of Public Works whose help was invaluable to the final production of the document. In addition, Michael Butler's insight and valuable comments helped guide us to our final draft. We would also like to thank Sandy Larimer, Phyllis Plank, Pam Mainland and Christine Hulbert of NCRVE's Materials Distribution Services for their insight and editing and production support. All design and layout was done by Kurt Rahn, and he also helped coordinate printing.
Most importantly, though, thanks are due in great measure to the many members of state agencies with whom we have spoken and corresponded throughout the year. Without their candidness and willingness to share their state's policies, practices, and lessons learned, this document could not have been prepared. We hope that we have communicated the real challenges of those who continue to work tirelessly at the state level to bring meaningful change to students in the classroom.
