The Workforce Readiness and Student Engagement Act aims to enhance public education by establishing workforce readiness programs and improving student engagement. The bill introduces new definitions related to workforce readiness, including terms such as "apprenticeship," "certification," and "dual credit." It allows students to choose a workforce readiness pathway as part of their graduation requirements, which can include certification programs, dual credit courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. Schools serving grades nine through twelve are mandated to develop apprenticeship programs in collaboration with the workforce solutions department to align educational offerings with local labor market needs.

Additionally, the Act emphasizes strategies to improve student engagement and attendance, such as career exposure programs and individualized learning plans. It requires the development of a comprehensive plan to monitor attendance rates and provide support for at-risk students. The bill also mandates annual evaluations of the workforce readiness programs, assessing their effectiveness and impact on student outcomes, with reports submitted to the legislature. To support these initiatives, the Act appropriates $20 million from the general fund for the public education department to implement the programs in fiscal year 2026 and beyond.