The "Workforce Readiness and Student Engagement Act" aims to enhance public education by establishing workforce readiness programs within the Public School Code. The bill introduces new definitions related to workforce readiness, including terms such as "apprenticeship," "certification," "dual credit," and "on-the-job training and mentorship." 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 mentorship opportunities. 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 bill emphasizes improving student engagement and attendance through various strategies, such as career exposure programs and individualized learning plans. It requires the education department to evaluate the effectiveness of the workforce readiness programs annually, documenting student participation and post-graduation employment rates. An appropriation of $20 million is allocated from the general fund to support these initiatives in fiscal year 2026 and beyond, ensuring that any unspent funds do not revert to the general fund.