On Thursday, June 18, Senator Tim Kaine reintroduced the bipartisan Middle School Technical Education Program (STEP) Act, S. 1609, along with Sens. Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). The legislation was originally considered during the 113th Congress, however, it was unable to pick up the momentum necessary to gain progress.
The Middle STEP Act would establish a pilot program administered by the Department of Education for partnerships of LEAs, postsecondary institutions and businesses to create career exploration programs, including apprenticeships and project-based learning opportunities, which would be specifically targeted to middle school aged students. The bill would create new opportunities for those students to explore their interests through experiential learning, a critical opportunity for students to plot their educational course.
ACTE endorsed the legislation during its previous consideration, and continues to advocate for this action to enhance student learning earlier in students’ education careers. Executive Director LeAnn Wilson issued a statement upon her endorsement of the legislation last week, which stated:
“Career exploration is truly of critical importance, because it can help students to identify where their passion and skills align through experiential learning,” said Wilson. “By encouraging institutions to create those opportunities for middle school students during such a formative time in their educational career, we can help them to get excited about their coursework and empower them to make smart choices about their future.”
We will continue to monitor the bill’s progress and report on opportunities for members to get involved as they arise. To learn more about the legislation, click here.
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