Illinois’ Career and Technical Education plan among first to receive federal approval

According to an article from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), the U.S. Department of Education signed off on Illinois’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) plan on May 22. The ISBE and the Illinois Community College Board jointly developed the plan in collaboration with educators, students and businesses. CTE prepares students for high-skill, high-wage, in-demand occupations – from manufacturing, logistics and natural resources to information technology, communications and health sciences. Middle and high school CTE programs in Illinois serve more than 283,000 students, and Illinois community college CTE programs serve more than 131,000 students.

Illinois’ plan provides financial incentives for programs to offer dual-credit opportunities and connect students directly with businesses. Workforce connections help students develop skills and gain access to mentorship, internships and apprenticeships.

Illinois’ plan strengthens and reflects the state’s commitment to equity for all students. The plan requires funded programs to meet benchmarks for size, scope and recruitment. For the first time, Illinois will require CTE programs to analyze disaggregated data on student participation and performance. Programs must identify gaps and create strategies to recruit and support special student populations such as students who are parenting, military-connected or in temporary housing. In response to the high demand for teachers in Illinois, the plan also includes New Educator Preparation Pathways to jumpstart secondary students into careers in teaching.

To read the article, view the full plan and learn more about CTE in Illinois, go to https://www.isbe.net/Lists/News/NewsDisplay.aspx?ID=1323.