Measure would bolster technical education

Legislation that would require the Kentucky Department of Education to bolster technical education tracks in schools cleared the Senate Education Committee on Thursday.

Provisions of Senate Bill 28, sponsored by Sen. Jack Westwood, R-Crescent Spring, include directing the department to: apply minimum college and career-readiness standards to all school districts by the 2011-2012 school year; enhance English, math and reading courses for students at-risk of dropping out of school; and create “career guidance coach” positions in school districts.

In addition, the bill encourages partnerships between schools and private companies and industries looking for specifically-trained workers.

– Ryan Alessi