The bill aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) in Arkansas by amending existing laws related to student assessment systems and the Computer Science Education Advancement Act of 2021. It emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities for students pursuing CTE pathways, ensuring that their achievements are recognized on par with those of college-bound students. The bill introduces new provisions that require the Division of Career and Technical Education to review and approve courses for weighted credit within approved CTE pathways, as well as to publish an annual list of these pathways. Additionally, it mandates that public high school students earn one unit of credit in a CTE course that includes at least 50% computer science content before graduation.

Key amendments include the establishment of criteria for awarding weighted credit to CTE courses, which must exceed standard curriculum requirements and lead to industry-recognized certifications. The bill also specifies that high schools must administer college and career readiness assessments, including a career readiness assessment that can lead to a nationally recognized work readiness certificate. Furthermore, it modifies the requirements for computer science education, ensuring that CTE courses incorporate significant computer science content. Overall, the legislation seeks to bolster the CTE framework in Arkansas, making it a viable alternative to traditional educational pathways.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB369 V2 - 3-9-2023 12:17 PM: 6-15-902(c), 6-15-2907(a), 6-16-152(b)
Old version SB369 V3 - 3-14-2023 02:44 PM: 6-15-902(c), 6-15-2907(a), 6-16-152(b)
Old version SB369 V4 - 3-15-2023 04:09 PM: 6-15-902(c), 6-15-2907(a), 6-16-152(b)
SB 369: 6-15-902(c), 6-15-2907(a), 6-16-152(b)