Local businesswoman supports dual-track education system

Dear Editor:

The Legislature has given every child in Louisiana an opportunity to truly pursue their own happiness.

We know that only 20 percent of the population will receive a four-year college degree. A dual track within the high school years will give many young people a chance to learn a skill while learning practical English, math and sciences.

The self-esteem of these children will soar as they discover their own gifts and talents. Many will hopefully go further to vocational schools or to a growing community college system. There are thousands of examples of people who have succeeded in life by all measures on similar paths.

With a consistent dropout rate of at least 35 percent, we have a chance to engage these students as never before. What an exciting opportunity to meet the needs of all students and change Louisiana in the process.

Businesses will want to expand and move here because we will develop a talented workforce along the way. A coach once said: “If you always do what you always did, you always get what you always got.” It is time to get on the bandwagon. Let’s build the best dual system that this country has ever seen. We will build a better Louisiana along the way.

Charlotte Bollinger,

Executive vice president,

Bollinger Shipyards, Inc.