February 26, 2008

Late on February 25, the U.S. House of Representatives approved House Resolution 930, recognizing February as national ‘‘Career and Technical Education Month.’’ The resolution was approved by a vote of 380-0.

The resolution, sponsored by Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA) and Rep. Phil English (R-PA), co-chairs of the Congressional CTE Caucus, resolves that the United States House of Representatives:

• supports the goals and ideals of Career and Technical Education Month;
• recognizes the importance of career and technical education in preparing a well-educated and skilled workforce in America; and
• encourages educators, counselors, and administrators to promote career and technical education as an option to students.

This is the first time in recent history that Congress has recognized the annual CTE celebration. ACTE worked closely with the House on the development, introduction and promotion of the resolution.

While the resolution was being debated, Rep. Baird, along with Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), and Rep. Rob Bishop (R-UT) all spoke in support of CTE. Rep. Baird and Rep. English later applauded the resolution’s passage. Baird said, “Career and technical education provides students with the skills they need to find employment in skilled professions and to compete in a competitive global economy. I applaud the Association for Career and Technical Education for its efforts to spread the word about CTE initiatives nationwide.” 

English continued, “By recognizing February as Career and Technical Education month, this resolution demonstrates Washington’s commitment to promoting new programs and strengthening career and technical education throughout the country.”

If your Representative voted for the resolution, please take time to thank him or her and encourage continued support of CTE. Continue to build relationships with Members of Congress who were not present for the vote and let them know how important CTE programs are to your schools and communities.