A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of "Career and Technical Education Month".
S. Res. 66 is a non-binding Senate resolution that expresses support for Career and Technical Education (CTE) and designates February 2025 as “Career and Technical Education Month.” It reiterates the goals and ideals of promoting CTE and recognizes its role in preparing a skilled workforce, aligning education with labor market needs, and maintaining U.S. economic competitiveness. The resolution notes historical federal support for CTE (including the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917 and the 2018 Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act) and highlights current CTE participation and employer demand. As a resolution, it does not create new programs or authorize funding; rather, it signals congressional support and encourages promotion of CTE as a valued educational pathway.
Key Points
- 1Designates February 2025 as “Career and Technical Education Month” to celebrate CTE nationwide.
- 2Reaffirms the goals and ideals of Career and Technical Education Month and the importance of CTE in education.
- 3Highlights CTE’s role in meeting labor market needs and boosting U.S. competitiveness, citing workforce and education data (e.g., infrastructure workforce turnover, postsecondary education requirements, 11.1 million students in CTE, parental/voter support, and employer demand for CTE skills).
- 4Recognizes historic and ongoing federal support for CTE, referencing the Smith-Hughes Act (1917) and the Perkins Act framework and the broad reach of CTE programs across states and territories.
- 5Encourages educators, counselors, administrators, and parents to promote CTE as a respected educational pathway for students.