In a special video to ACTE members at the 2014 National Policy Seminar, Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK) accepted the 2013 ACTE Policymaker of the Year Award. This award is presented annually by ACTE to recognize policymakers who have made a significant contribution to CTE policy in the past year.
Senator Begich has made CTE one of his top priorities, despite not being a member of the Senate education committee. In 2013, he introduced a package of CTE policy initiatives including theCounseling for Career Choice Act, CTE Facilities Modernization Act and the Professional Development for Educators Act.
ACTE worked with Sen. Begich on introducing the Counseling for Career Choice Act, which would provide support for school counselors to help students make informed decisions regarding their career and academic goals. ACTE is a proud supporter of this legislation, and we applaud the senator for his efforts to promote career guidance and counseling.
As a member of the Senate appropriations committee, the senator also helped to restore funding for the Perkins Act cut under sequestration.
In his remarks, Sen. Begich noted that it is critical for policymakers to focus on ensuring every student has access to high-quality CTE to help students gain the competencies and skills needed to compete in the 21st-century workforce.
"Alaska and all America have many opportunities for students who are driven and armed with relevant skills and knowledge. We have a wealth of young people who can be valuable members of our workforce and our community. Together we can make this happen."
- Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK)
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