Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an essential component of the high school curriculum. For many students, it represents as much as a third of their high school experience. It is a critical component in meeting the needs of students in academic achievement, career exploration, career preparation and leadership development. Successful transition to post secondary education, work or the military is one of the goals of Kentucky's educational system. The percentage of students making successful transition is a component of the high school accountability index.