Stop Calling It ‘Vocational Training’

How we speak about education reflects class prejudice.

By Virginia Foxx
Dec. 31, 2018 6:22 p.m. ET

I know how it feels to be the only woman in a room of powerful men. I also know how it feels to be tuned out because of how I look or where I’m from. For these reasons I’m sympathetic to those who are passionate about changing culture for the better by promoting “inclusive” language. But the focus on inclusivity hasn’t extended to the way we talk about education.

Education has always been the key to opportunity in America, rightly called “the great equalizer.” But the sociologist Herbert Spencer once noted “how often misused words generate misleading thoughts.” By placing descriptors like “vocational” and “technical” in front of the word “education,” we generate misleading thoughts about the types of people who enroll in such programs.

To read the entire article, please visit the Wall Street Journal’s Website here.

Ms. Foxx, a Republican, represents North Carolina’s Fifth Congressional District.

More News and resources...

  • All
  • Competitions
  • Cosmetology
  • Esthetics
  • Massage Therapy & Bodywork
  • News
  • Press Releases
  • Teacher Training
Kevin Murphy Brand Logo

Kevin Murphy Hair Products: Are They Worth It?

When it comes to professional haircare education, few brands are as respected as Kevin Murphy. Known for clean, sustainable ingredients and salon-quality performance, Kevin Murphy ...
Read More →

Job Opportunities and Pay Range for a Hairstylist

A Rewarding Career in Hairstyling   If you’re passionate about beauty and helping others feel confident, a career as a hairstylist could be the perfect ...
Read More →

What you need to become an Instructor

To train a teacher for cosmetology, the following steps can be taken: Obtain proper cosmetology education and training: The teacher must have a cosmetology license ...
Read More →