How early to start career planning?

Classroom
Students in a classroom at Century College in White Bear Lake.
MPR Photo/Tim Post

Gov. Pawlenty's Workforce Development Council says one way to improve the state's economy is to have high school students choose their career path in the ninth grade.

Here's the wording of the proposed policy.

"Every Minnesota learner will, from no later than ninth grade, have a plan, reviewed at least annually, to guide him/her through high school and beyond into competitive employment and postsecondary education.

The plan will be implemented gradually, becoming a graduation requirement with the graduating class of 2014."

Educators weigh in on the merits of the proposal.