The State of Career Technical Education: An Analysis of States’ Perkins V Priorities

This cross-state analysis from Advance CTE examines how states have leveraged the development of Perkins V state plans to advance the dual priorities of expanding quality and increasing equity within their CTE systems.

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The State of Career Technical Education: An Analysis of States’ Perkins V Priorities

In summer 2018, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) was signed into law, which provided states the opportunity to reflect, engage with a wide array of stakeholders and partners, reaffirm key priorities and commitments, and identify new opportunities to support learners and their industry partners. The State of Career Technical Education: An Analysis of States’ Perkins V Priorities examines how states have leveraged the development of Perkins V state plans to advance the dual priorities of expanding quality and increasing equity within their CTE systems.
 
Through the analysis of all 50 states and Washington D.C.’s Perkins V plans, which was supplemented by a survey of State CTE Directors, Advance CTE identified common aspects that are indicative of a comprehensive and cohesive state plan, a number of which go beyond the law’s requirements and expectations. These hallmarks include: 
 
  • A shared statewide vision;
  • Ongoing and meaningful alignment and collaboration across the K-12, postsecondary and workforce systems;
  • A commitment to equity and learner supports;  
  • A commitment to quality programs; 
  • Systems for attracting, retaining and developing CTE instructors;
  • The use of data-driven decisionmaking; and
  • A strong system of supports to ensure fidelity of implementation.

These hallmarks of a strong Perkins V state plan offer insights into how states are addressing the significant changes under Perkins V while taking advantage of the opportunities and flexibilities awarded, along with specific state highlights and promising innovations. 

Read the executive summary here.

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