This 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 for various educational purposes, including staff salaries, materials, smaller class sizes, and work-based learning programs.

Furthermore, the bill amends 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 treatment is intended solely for accounting and does not affect the quality of programs across different grade levels. The bill aims to enhance career and technical education opportunities for younger students while ensuring proper funding and resource allocation for these programs.

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