Bill > H631

This bill establishes an Office of Career Technical Education (CTE) within the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to enhance and expand career and vocational-technical education opportunities across Massachusetts. The office will be led by a deputy commissioner and tasked with several key responsibilities, including developing student credentials in workplace skills, ensuring instructor competence through advisory boards and competency testing, collaborating with industry credential providers, and promoting CTE programs that align with regional labor market needs. The bill requires comprehensive high schools to offer at least one CTE course or internship to increase student exposure to technical career fields, and mandates efforts to make these programs accessible to all students, including English language learners and students with disabilities. Additionally, the bill allows cities and towns more flexibility in participating in vocational regional school districts, permits municipalities to offer approved vocational programs in their high schools, and establishes a two-year pilot program to encourage collaboration between schools with and without existing CTE programs. The legislation aims to better connect educational programs with workforce development needs, provide students with practical skills, and expand access to career-focused learning opportunities.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H631