The bill amends existing laws regarding career and technical education (CTE) in Washington State, specifically allowing sixth-grade students in middle schools to enroll in exploratory CTE courses. However, these students will not be included in the enrollment counts used for calculating funding allocations under specific sections of RCW 28A.150.260. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 28A.700, which outlines the conditions under which school districts can utilize excess CTE funding allocations, emphasizing that these funds should be directed solely towards CTE purposes.

Furthermore, the bill modifies RCW 28A.150.265 to clarify that middle school and high school CTE programs funded through RCW 28A.150.260(4)(c) will be treated as a single program for accounting purposes. This includes the calculation of minimum expenditures, carryover amounts, and recovery amounts, ensuring that this accounting treatment does not lead to disparities in program quality across different grade levels. The bill aims to enhance the accessibility and quality of career and technical education for students in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.62.050
Substitute Bill: 43.62.050
Second Substitute: 28A.150.260
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.150.260
Session Law: 28A.150.260