McClellan Introduces Career-Connected Learning Pathways Act to Support CTE Programs Nationwide
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) introduced H.R. 7676, the Career-Connected Learning Pathways Act, a bill which sets students up for their futures and supports each state in creating a searchable public directory of career and technical education (CTE) programs of study and career pathways to benefit students and employers.
Across the country, students, families, educators and employers must navigate fragmented information about CTE programs, limiting accessibility and workforce alignment. While high-quality career pathways serve more than 11 million students nationwide, there is no straightforward way to understand what programs are available, what credentials they lead to, how they align with workforce demand or how they connect to higher education and industry partners. By amending the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act to implement public directories of available CTE programs and pathways, this legislation will expand opportunity and better align education with the needs of the workforce.
“As they grow up, students around the country face a whirlwind of overwhelming choices when considering what educational pathway is best for their future,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Through this legislation, I hope to make that process easier for students and their families while connecting industry partners with young talent. As attacks on our federal education system continue, we must continue to offer clear, precise information to students on what our incredible CTE programs can offer them. This Career and Technical Education Month, I’m introducing the Career-Connected Learning Pathways Act to make these opportunities more accessible to our workforce of tomorrow and strengthen the American economy.”
This bill is endorsed by Advance CTE.
The Career-Connected Learning Pathways Act addresses the lack of transparency on CTE programs by allowing states to use Perkins funds to develop statewide directories that clearly identify:
- Program descriptions and course sequences
- Industry or career cluster alignment
- Available credentials and dual enrollment opportunities
- Work-based learning opportunities
- Postsecondary and industry partnerships
- Evidence of alignment with labor market needs
View the full bill text here.