House vote on Career Pathways legislation shows Michigan is coming together to lead nation in developing talent

Bipartisan package would help teachers, districts and students prepare for future

TED Media Contact: Dave Murray
517-243-7530 | murrayd5@michigan.gov

MDE Media Contact: Martin Ackley
517-241-4395 | ackleym@michigan.gov

Dec. 13, 2017

LANSING, Mich. —Talent and Economic Development Director Roger Curtis and State Superintendent Brian Whiston, co-leaders of the Michigan Career Pathways Alliance, issued the following joint statement today after the state House of Representatives approved the Michigan Career Pathways package – House Bills 5139-5142 and 5145:

“Michigan students need to be more aware of great career opportunities, and our schools need additional tools to help them prepare the next generations of Michigan’s skilled workforce. Our partners in the state House of Representatives today approved bills that focus in on some of the biggest challenges facing schools.

“These bills will help districts find and hire people experienced in the professional trades to lead career and technical education classes. Districts across the state have either cancelled some classes or have been unable to offer them because of the challenges in finding instructors.

“The legislation will help students of all ages start thinking about careers and skills needed for great jobs. And they will help educators gain valuable experience outside the classroom to better help teach and advise students with the most up-to-date information.

“These are bills that would address opportunities for all of our students, no matter which career pathway they choose.

“The overwhelming bipartisan support for the bills today shows that Michigan is coming together to lead the nation in developing talent, and that this is vitally important to continue Michigan’s momentum. We look forward to continuing this conversation with our partners in the state Senate.

“We want to thank all House members, but especially Reps. Bronna Kahle, Daire Rendon, Julie Alexander, Robert Kosowski and Sue Allor for sponsoring legislation, and Rep. Ben Frederick for his leadership of the House Workforce and Talent Development Committee.”