The bill establishes a three-year Skilled Trades Career Exploration Pilot Program, directed by the Commissioner of Education, aimed at enhancing career and technical education for high school students in New Jersey. It allocates $5 million from the General Fund to support school districts in developing or expanding educational programs, acquiring necessary equipment and technologies, and providing professional development for instructors. The Commissioner will set selection criteria for grants and choose five districts from each of the state's southern, central, and northern regions, ensuring a diverse representation of urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Participating school districts are required to submit annual reports detailing their experiences and the program's impact, which should include quantifiable measures where possible. Additionally, the Commissioner will compile these findings into an annual report for the Governor and the Legislature, providing insights into the program's implementation and effectiveness.