Kansas House Bill HB2138

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/23/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Engrossed: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/2/23
• Report Pass: 3/27/23
• Enrolled: 4/24/23
• Vetoed: 4/24/23
• Override: 4/27/23

Caption

Senate Substitute for HB 2138 by Committee on Education - Requiring school districts to provide separate accommodations for students of each biological sex on overnight school district sponsored trips, requiring contracts for exclusive broadcasts of state high school activities association activities to permit certain local broadcasts and providing for administrative review of resolutions to permanently close a school building of a school district.

Impact

The bill mandates that the State Board of Education must determine the payment amounts based on students’ successful attainment of industry-sought credentials. School districts are required to first use these funds for assessment costs related to the credentials. This approach not only elevates the importance of technical education but also encourages schools to develop robust CTE programs, thereby potentially increasing student enrollment in these vital pathways. The act is set to promote collaboration between educational institutions and industries by identifying which credentials are most beneficial in securing employment.

Summary

House Bill 2138 establishes the Career Technical Education Credential and Transition Incentive for Employment Success Act in Kansas. The primary objective of this legislation is to provide state aid to school districts that have students obtaining approved career technical education (CTE) credentials deemed desirable by employers. This aim reflects a growing emphasis on aligning education with employment needs, particularly in technical and vocational fields that are increasingly relevant in today’s job market. The act stipulates a system of payments to schools based on the number of students who achieve these credentials each academic year.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 2138 may revolve around its implications for existing educational funding and the adequacy of the support provided to CTE programs. Critics may argue that while the intent of providing incentives for vocational training is commendable, it could inadvertently lead to a decreased focus on traditional academic subjects, which are equally important. There might also be concerns about the definition of 'industry-sought credentials' and whether the state adequately monitors the evolving job market to keep the identified credentials relevant. Overall, while the bill aims to improve employment outcomes, stakeholders will need to address how to balance this with comprehensive educational development.