Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), the primary Democratic author of bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE) Act, applauded the passage of his legislation into law. The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act will help students and workers get the skills they need to find high-skill, high-wage or in-demand jobs in the future.
“I am pleased that we were able to work together across party lines on legislation that will help ensure that all students and workers get the skills they need to compete for well-paying jobs today and in the future,” said Senator Casey. “I’d like to thank Senator Enzi, Ranking Member Murray and Chairman Alexander for their work and cooperation over the last few years. I look forward to strong results from our nation’s students, workers and economy.”
U.S. Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY), Senate education committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA) were instrumental in the passage of this legislation.
The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act makes important, necessary updates to career and technical education to ensure all students, including special populations, have access to high-quality programs; helps recruit and retain CTE educators, and provides workers and students the skills they need to find high-skill, high-wage or in-demand jobs.
The first reauthorization of the Perkins CTE Act since 2006, this law encourages states, schools and local CTE providers to update education and job training to meet the needs of the local economies, ensuring students have the skills needed to remain competitive. It also increases alignment with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), and promotes collaboration between stakeholders so that high schools, institutions of higher education, community-based organizations and local businesses can communicate their needs and coordinate as programs are developed.
The American Federation of Teachers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, along with nearly 500 businesses and organizations from the National Association of Manufacturers, voiced their support for bipartisan reauthorization.
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