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OPINION
Now that a majority of our schools no longer train any mechanical skills, and what was once known as Manual Training it is no wonder some of the jobs that used these skills are being taken over by immigrants. Some time ago it was decided by many schools that what was needed was advanced skills. The big problem was, the basics were left behind. Here in Colorado, as in other states, then came the discovery that basic reading, writing and math were falling short so the best thing to do was start emphasizing these skills, and test for them, just to be sure it was being taught. Manual Training, or using your hands to do a job became Vocational Training and Industrial Arts just after World War Two. Some schools had some excellent programs, including District 8. In the 1980’s they started the switch to Technical Education, such as teaching computer skills in schools where there once had been a wood working shop. Instead of teaching boys and girls to use their hands to make things, a computer might do the making. What happened to that idea is quite interesting. The craft of building homes has become an area where someone from outside the country can get a good job. The framer, cabinet maker, flat work or foundation man, welder, drywall, electrician and roofer may be just learning to speak English. They got the job because there is a need for them, but our schools stopped teaching these basics years ago. Many auto shops closed because it got too difficult to keep up with the changes in technology. In addition some school districts turned these teaching needs to community colleges. The small colleges grew up to fill the needs in areas that could not support this kind of school before. There are twice as many community colleges and technical schools than just a decade or so ago. Forget tinkering on your car, but what about the guy who wants to build something in his basement or garage? They are still there, and young people occasionally get interested because Dad or Grandad have a little workshop. Why you can go to some box store and get what you need, but the schools do not help out anymore. Oh, there are a few with those old fashioned ideas, but they are getting to be fewer and fewer. Perhaps the idea of Manual Training needs to be brought back.
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