The Farmville Herald And Farmer Leader

Planning Vocational Program

A survey to determine interest in and need for a vocational program at Farmville High School was conducted in the community last week by representatives of the State Department of Education.

The survey was keyed to the types of vocational programs most suitable for a community of this size and limited industrial complexity, distributive education or the sales field, and diversified occupations, or the trades and building field.

Superintendent of Schools T. J. McIlwaine said today the preliminary findings of the several surveyors, who called on businessmen to sound them out and explain the program, were favorable to the idea.

The superintendent pointed out that the matter is only in the idea stage and that several factors must be considered in making a final decision. One of the important decisions, however, is that of public support.

The program contemplated is of joint work-school-training type, with the student dividing time between the class room and job.

Classroom training, would be similarly divided between normal academic subjects and work directly related to the students chosen business or industrial occupations.

At the same time, students would receive laboratory experience and training in retail, wholesale, service and industrial establishments with local businessmen who would provide part-time employment in the afternoons and Saturday.

Mr. McIlwaine pointed out further, that the availability of a qualified teacher - work training coordinator; that the interest of sufficient parents and students; and that sufficient numbers of business places with a willingness to cooperate in the program, are the essential questions governing whether or not such a program is added.