June 2, 2022 – The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is applauding a new law that allows students to be introduced to technical education at an earlier age.
The law expands career and technical education in Illinois schools and supporters say it will help students better understand their career pathway options as early as the sixth grade.
“It requires districts to implement a specific career exploration pathway, but it creates an incredible opportunity for students to have more access to career exploration opportunities,” said Sarah Hartwick, vice president of education and workforce policy and head of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association Education Foundation. “By expanding career and technical education in schools across our state, students will better understand their career pathways at an earlier age, preparing them for long-term success at school, in their careers and in life.”
The career technical pathway legislation will be implemented in Illinois schools this fall.
