For the class of 2026, there is one thought that echoes in every student’s mind: “What am I going to do next year?” For years, the answer at Braintree High seemed simple – college. Every junior is automatically enrolled in an SAT prep class, and guidance counselors emphasize completing applications and essays. But what if that’s not the only path to success anymore?
Trade schools and alternative career programs are currently on the rise around the nation, and Braintree High students are following this trend. It appears that college enrollment has steadily declined, and students are now rethinking what it means to have a successful future, and to be honest, it’s about time.
Ms. Lauren Carreiro, Braintree High’s College and Career Readiness teacher, helps students plan their future – whether that’s college, trade, or another route entirely.
“We’re really focused on making sure students are ready for whatever they want to do after high school,” Carreiro explained. “There’s going to be a strong focus on students leaving the class with a plan, whether that’s applying to schools, or getting certifications or training for a career.
It’s refreshing to hear someone at Braintree High talk about paths other than college for a change. For a long time, there has been almost an unspoken pressure that going to college is the only “right” option one can make, and if you don’t, you are somehow behind. However, that mindset doesn’t reflect the world one bit. Trades like electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC are not only in high demand, but they pay well, often having starting salaries above $50,000. Without the dreadful student loan debt that most college graduates face.
Carreiro pointed out that the financial burden of college is one of the biggest challenges that students today face.
“College costs are through the roof,” she said. “A benefit to a trade is that there are apprenticeships where you’re getting paid while you learn.” In 2025, where the average student loan debt is over $30,000, getting paid to learn sounds like a pretty good deal.
But of course, college still makes sense for some interested in careers like medicine, law, and education. As Carreiro noted, “There are so many jobs out there that don’t require college, and even jobs that don’t exist yet. Technology and AI are changing everything.”
So maybe it’s time for Braintree High to change too. Instead of automatically assuming every student wants to go to college, maybe we should focus on helping all students find the path best for them – whether that’s university, trade, or even straight into the workforce. Because success isn’t one size fits all, and it definitely doesn’t come with a diploma.
