The bill aims to expand and strengthen career and technical education (CTE) core plus programs in Washington, recognizing their success in providing students with pathways to employment and meeting industry needs. It establishes a new allied health professions program, which will be developed by the office of the superintendent of public instruction in collaboration with various stakeholders, including industry representatives and labor organizations. The program will focus on providing instruction for industry-recognized nondegree credentials that lead to entry-level positions in allied health professions and may include courses offered prior to January 1, 2024. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of curriculum and instructional materials for optional use in school districts starting in the 2027-28 school year.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a statewide career and technical education task force to recommend strategies for enhancing work-integrated learning opportunities and improving the administration of CTE core plus programs. The task force will focus on expanding accessibility, stability, and uniformity in these programs while ensuring they reflect industry competencies. It is required to report its findings and recommendations by November 15, 2025, and the section establishing the task force will expire on June 30, 2026.