Career and technical education is expanding across secondary schools, but educators say persistent gaps in funding, facilities and instructor supply are holding back program quality. An EdWeek Research Center survey finds many districts rate their CTE offerings as a B, pointing to strong business partnerships, concurrent enrollment and up‑to‑date equipment as markers of 'A' programs. Those CTE pressures intersect with broader budgeting practices. EdWeek research shows district leaders want to start budget conversations earlier—shifting priority discussions into January–April windows and engaging department leaders sooner—to avoid short‑term cuts that hurt program continuity. District leaders are using these findings to align CTE investments with workforce partnerships, dual‑enrollment pipelines and capital planning.