Senate Economic Development action on SBs 684, 685 important step for securing access to multiple career paths for K-12 students

TED MEDIA CONTACT: DAVE MURRAY
517-243-7530 | MURRAYD5@MICHIGAN.GOV

Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018

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 Senate Economic Development and International Investment committee reported out SBs 684 and 685 – bills that align with the recommendations set forth by the alliance.

“We applaud Chairman Horn and the committee members for their forward-thinking action to ensure students and schools have a robust set of resources and tools to explore and prepare for the many great careers available in Michigan.

“Our state has worked hard to create a business climate for companies to grow and thrive. Now, we need to continue building talent to fill these good-paying, in-demand jobs created by these companies. Bridging our talent gap starts in our schools.

“The legislation, which will now move to the Senate floor, builds upon our forward-moving progress to ensure student get career connected before graduation, putting us even closer to closing Michigan’s talent gap.

“This is sound legislation that is good for Michigan students and our state’s continued economic prosperity.”

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SBs 684 and 685 will provide students with more meaningful use of their Educational Development Plans and help them document tangible and marketable career skills achieved during their education. The bills also help schools to modernize their existing school improvement plans, to provide robust career exploration and hands-on learning that enhances a student’s employability skills in all grade levels.