Career and technical education; revise curriculum, instructor license requirements and certain assessments.
The bill is designed to align CTE programs more closely with the evolving demands of the workforce. By allowing local business professionals to teach CTE courses and simplifying dual enrollment processes, it is expected to not only boost student engagement in hands-on learning but also enhance job preparedness among graduates. This shift could lead to increased enrollment in CTE programs and improved outcomes in employment for students who choose vocational education paths rather than traditional four-year college routes.
House Bill 428 aims to enhance the framework for Career and Technical Education (CTE) within Mississippi's school system through the Comprehensive Career and Technical Education Reform (CCATER) Act. This legislation proposes several amendments to existing statutes, including the requirements for dual credit instructors, notice regarding career track programs, and the incorporation of industry-standard assessments such as the ACT WorkKeys assessment for students in CTE programs. A significant feature of the bill is its focus on accommodating qualifications for instructors with practical experience in their fields without necessitating traditional higher education degrees, thereby broadening the talent pool for teaching positions.
While the intent behind House Bill 428 is to strengthen CTE in Mississippi, it has generated debate regarding the potential dilution of teaching quality and academic rigor in career-related fields. Critics express concern that removing the requirement for a bachelor's degree may compromise educational standards. Supporters counter that the bill is a necessary step for enhancing local workforce readiness and providing immediate opportunities for students to enter high-demand job sectors without the burden of extensive higher education.
If enacted, HB428 will require the State Board of Education to implement comprehensive accountability measures tied to the performance on the ACT WorkKeys Assessment and align CTE curriculum more closely with industry standards. The proposed changes are designed to prepare students for a variety of postsecondary options, including apprenticeships, certification programs, and immediate workforce entry, ultimately fostering a more skilled labor pool in Mississippi.