Video: Pennsylvania education leaders discuss CTE programs

The roundtable discussion included Superintendent Tony Watlington and explored how CTE is changing to better prepare students for the future.

September 5, 2025

The Center for American Progress, in collaboration with the American Federation of Teachers, hosted an event to discuss the replicable, successful CTE programs in the Philadelphia region, and convene experts—including elected officials, education system leaders, and business partners across various industries—to explore opportunities for CTE policy development at the local, state, and federal levels.

Panelists:

Governor Josh Shapiro (D-Pennsylvania)

Mayor Cherelle Parker (Philadelphia)

Superintendent Tony B. Watlington, Ed.D. (Philadelphia Public Schools)

Dr. Shervon Thompson, Principal, Dobbins Career and Technical High School (Philadelphia)

Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers

Moderator: Neera Tanden, President and CEO, Center for American Progress

Watch the roundtable in the video below.

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