A momentous step forward has been taken in the fight for equity in vocational education admissions.
On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted in favor of the Weighted Lottery Admissions regulation, a change that will help ensure more Students of Color, English Language Learners, Low-Income students, and Students with Disabilities have access to vocational schools, which offer opportunities that can be life-changing.
This victory, led by the Vocational Education Justice Coalition (VEJC), is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of persistent effort in dismantling systemic barriers.
For years, vocational admissions were shaped by outdated and restrictive criteria that disproportionately excluded historically marginalized students. Now, thanks to this updated regulation, vocational education can truly be a pathway to success for ALL students, regardless of background.
But, the fight isn’t over. We must remain vigilant against efforts to overturn this progress, including the House-Senate Budget Conference Committee’s attempt to block the regulation.
Additionally, we must work hand-in-hand with sending schools to ensure students are supported in the application process, including attending orientation sessions and completing an Expression of Interest for additional qualification points.
PDM and VEJC are also committed to collaborating with regional vocational schools and DESE on best practices for supporting incoming students academically, socially, and emotionally. Attending a vocational school is more than just an education, it’s an opportunity that can reshape lives, opening doors to new career paths and economic stability.
This victory belongs to the students, families, educators, and advocates who have fought tirelessly to make vocational education more inclusive. It belongs to every young person who will now have a fair shot at a future in skilled trades, technology, and beyond.
We celebrate this win, as we also recommit ourselves to the work ahead. Justice in education is not won in a single vote, but through continuous action and advocacy.
Onward!