As 2024 came to a close, states continued to advance Career Technical Education (CTE) policies that will pave the way for more accessible, flexible, and impactful pathways for learners and educators. Despite the year-end rush, Indiana and Ohio enacted key policies aimed at expanding opportunities in CTE, showing a continued commitment to improving the CTE landscape. 

Indiana’s New High School Diploma Framework: Flexibility and Personalization for Learners

In a significant step toward improving high school education, The Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) approved a new diploma framework in December that emphasizes flexibility, personalization, and work-based learning opportunities for learners. The new framework offers high school learners the ability to customize their educational pathways by selecting electives that align with their interests and career goals. While the base requirements for the high school diploma remain unchanged, this flexibility empowers learners to pursue additional “readiness seals” that align with their post-graduation plans—whether that involves enrollment in postsecondary education, entry into the workforce, or military enlistment. 

The new framework also strengthens the connection between CTE and real-world skills by enhancing access to work-based learning opportunities and credentials of value. As part of the implementation process, Indiana will develop resources such as advising tools and accountability models, and they will increase access to credentials of value throughout 2025 to ensure that learners are supported as they navigate their personalized paths.

Ohio HB 432: Enhancing Pathways for Career Technical Educators

With the passage of House Bill 432 in December 2024, Ohio made strides to improve access to CTE educator licensure and address workforce shortages in CTE fields. This law amends previous legislation to offer new routes for aspiring educators who want to teach CTE courses. 

HB 432 introduces two innovative educator preparation options to be offered by district employers: 

• A preparation program, which requires 9 credit hours and 45 hours of local professional development; and 
• An alternative licensure program that combines competency-based assessments, a personal learning plan, and mentorship.

Educators with at least five years of relevant work experience can obtain a two-year CTE license with a recommendation from the district’s superintendent. Additionally, the legislation outlines a structured renewal process and sets a path toward obtaining an advanced CTE workforce development license.

More policy highlights are on the way!

Coming in February 2025, Advance CTE and the Association for Career and Technical Education’s (ACTE) 12th annual State Policies Impacting CTE: 2024 Year in Review report and webinar will examine 2024 CTE policies across the nation. While the report focuses on overall policy trends, the webinar will feature Anthony Harl, Indiana State CTE Director and Kandy Smitha, Executive Director for Indiana Association for Career and Technical Education, who will offer a state and local perspective respectively.

State Policies Impacting CTE: 2024 Year in Review webinar February 27, 2025 3-4 PM ET Register here

For more information, visit Advance CTE’s State Policy Resources Page.