Schools would assess students' occupational competency after career training

A school entity would use one of three methods to assess a student's occupational competency. This applies to students who complete an approved career and technical education program at a school entity, including an area career and technical school. A CTE concentrator is a student expected to complete at least half of the required technical instruction hours by the end of a reporting year; the bill does not make that definition an eligibility limit for the certification option. The school would use the appropriate Pennsylvania Skills Certificate Program assessment, another occupational competency assessment approved by the Department of Education, or an industry-based competency certification. The certification must relate to the CTE concentrator's program of study and show mastery of specific skills and knowledge, that the student has met industry standards, and readiness to enter the workforce. The section would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.

The bill would remove 22 Pa. Code § 4.31(a) wherever it conflicts with the act. The provision applies only to 22 Pa. Code § 4.31(a), and only to the extent that it is inconsistent with the act. The bill would take effect immediately if it becomes law.