The bill aims to enhance technical readiness and career training education in public schools across Alaska by establishing a comprehensive framework that integrates hands-on learning opportunities for students in grades six through twelve. It emphasizes the importance of dedicated funding for school districts to support vocational and technical instruction, as well as work-based learning programs. The bill introduces a new funding factor of 1.025 for secondary school vocational and technical instruction and mandates that districts allocate at least 80 percent of these funds specifically for technical readiness and career training initiatives.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Alaska technical readiness and career training system within the Department of Education, which will oversee the development and maintenance of various career training programs. It outlines the responsibilities of a newly created coordinator who will facilitate partnerships with industry and educational institutions, evaluate program effectiveness, and maintain a repository of resources. The legislation also allows districts to enter agreements with partner entities to provide students with opportunities to earn school credit for participation in technical training and work-based learning, with financial incentives for districts based on student credit earned.

Statutes affected:
HB0333A, AM HB 333, introduced 02/23/2026: 14.17.420, 14.17.410