What is the main purpose of the Smith Hughes Vocational Act?

The Smith-Hughes Vocational Act, enacted in 1917, primarily aimed to promote vocational education in agriculture and other trades. This legislation marked a significant development in the U.S. educational system as it provided federal funds to support vocational education programs at the secondary level. The intention was to equip students with practical skills that could be directly applied in the workforce, particularly in areas like agriculture, which was vital to the economy at that time.

By placing emphasis on vocational education, the act recognized the need for skilled labor in various industries, contributing to better job readiness and economic development. This focus on practical training laid the groundwork for the later establishment and growth of agricultural education, which ultimately contributed to the formation of programs like the Future Farmers of America (FFA).