ANR helps youth prepare for world of work

As early as 2892, UC demonstrated its commitment to help youth prepare for college and beyond. That year UC Berkeley established the Department of Pedagogy then consisting of one faculty member. Elmer Ellsworth Brown would soon develop uniform statewide standards for high school teachers. In 1894, UC issued the first high school teaching certificate awarded in California based on W.R. GOMES Vice President Agriculture and Natural Resources these standards. By 1913, the University was working with school districts to form rural boys and girls clubs. These were the forerunners of UC’s statewide 4-H program; by 1918 California 4-H clubs had enrolled 2,000 youth. Today there are hundreds of outreach programs on all our campuses and throughout the system. They reach tens of thousands of elementary and secondary students. Efforts range from programs that target health and nutritional needs of youth, to special tutoring and counseling, to enrichment and training for teachers. Yet in spite of many efforts, an increasing number of young Californians need help. While more high school students than ever before attend college, many fall short of their goals. Of California students who enter 4-year colleges, 47% do not attain a degree within 5 years.* Youth leaving high school often lack basic skills needed for success in college and the workplace. In this issue, Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) academics present new research into high school students’ career awareness and preparation for the workforce (see p. 48-64). Workforce preparation or lack thereof has become one of the most pressing human resources issues, and is the subject of state and national initiatives.