Schools that provide a special curriculum oriented to preparing students for employment after graduation; often a type of magnet school or school of choice. Though the term has traditionally been used to refer to schools that focused on instruction for non-college-bound students, such as those offering automobile mechanics or printing, schools also may be termed vocational if they give intensive preparation in a subject area that will likely be pursued in college, such as performing arts or science. The Department of Education recommends that parents exercise choice in finding the right school for their children.