H.R. 5531: Career and Technical Education Access Act

This bill, known as the Career and Technical Education Access Act, proposes the establishment of a federal grant program aimed at enhancing career and technical education (CTE) across the United States. The key points of the bill are as follows:

Purpose and Findings

The bill aims to address the increasing demand for skilled workers in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, and information technology. It recognizes that:

• Connecticut's successful CTE model can be replicated to improve educational outcomes for students.
• Expanding CTE high schools can bolster economic opportunities for students, particularly in under-resourced areas.
• A significant gap exists in hands-on, work-based learning opportunities for students in states without dedicated CTE high schools.
• Students, especially those in rural or underserved areas, need more access to CTE programs, including online and hybrid options.

Federal Grant Program

The bill establishes a voluntary federal grant program that allows states to:

• Establish, expand, or improve CTE programs tailored to local workforce needs.
• Implement various forms of CTE programs, including standalone CTE high schools and regional career centers.
• Ensure strong partnerships with industries and provide work-based learning opportunities.
• Conduct a workforce alignment assessment every three years to ensure that CTE programs align with job market needs.
• Encourage employer participation by promoting contributions like funding, equipment donations, and internships for CTE graduates.
• Integrate dual-enrollment programs with junior or community colleges to allow students to earn college credit while in high school.
• Facilitate automatic transfer of credits for students completing CTE programs to higher education institutions.
• Use grant funding to develop online and hybrid learning options for students in remote areas.
• Establish CTE Pell Grants to assist public secondary school students in covering costs related to industry-recognized certifications and training.

Application Process and Grant Usage

The Secretary of Education, in coordination with the Secretary of Labor, will oversee the grant program, which will be competitive and require states to submit an application that includes:

• A needs assessment reflecting local demand for CTE programs.
• Information on existing CTE programs and areas for improvement.
• A budget and timeline for implementation and expansion of CTE programs.
• Strategies for workforce alignment with local employers.
• Plans for equitable access to CTE programs.
• Reports on Program alignment with in-demand job sectors.

The grants will be awarded for a period of five years and can be used for various approved activities such as:

• Constructing or renovating CTE facilities.
• Developing career-aligned coursework.
• Collaboration between CTE programs and local businesses for aligning curricula with workforce needs.
• Creating internship and apprenticeship opportunities.
• Funding professional development for CTE educators.
• Acquiring modern training tools and software for CTE programs.

Assessment and Reporting

Recipient states are required to report on several indicators annually, which include:

• Enrollment figures in CTE programs.
• High school graduation and college enrollment rates for CTE students.
• Job placement rates for CTE graduates.
• Number of employers engaged with CTE programs.

The Secretary will also publish a database of this information for public access.

CTE Pell Grants

The bill additionally establishes CTE Pell Grants to help public secondary school students cover tuition and costs associated with various programs, including CTE diplomas, certifications, and apprenticeships.

Definitions

To clarify the bill's provisions, key terms are defined, including:

• Career-aligned coursework: Courses designed to prepare students for high-demand occupations.
• Career and technical education (CTE): Educational programs that provide technical skills and knowledge related to specific careers.
• CTE high school: A secondary school that provides both academic instruction and vocational training.

Relevant Companies

• LDOS (Leidos Holdings, Inc.): As a major player in technology and engineering solutions, Leidos could benefit from a skilled workforce in information technology and engineering due to the focus on CTE programs.
• ROK (Rockwell Automation, Inc.): This company focuses on industrial automation and could see a direct impact from improved training and education in technical fields.
• PH (Parker Hannifin Corporation): Engages in motion and control technologies, and could leverage CTE graduates for roles in manufacturing and engineering.