FELDER’S BILL EXTENDS HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAS TO VOCATIONAL (CTE) STUDENTS

The New York State Senate has unanimously passed a bill introduced by Senator Simcha Felder (Brooklyn) that would amend the education law and establish an alternative pathway to a diploma and graduation for students seeking a career technical education (CTE). Armed with this diploma, graduates would not only receive official recognition and credentials for their schooling and skills, but also have greater opportunities, principally among employers who require a high school level diploma.

“Regardless of their academic or vocational inclination, students in New York only have one path to graduation now,” explained Senator Felder. “This is through the regents with an education that’s geared towards college preparation. Recently, with the implementation of the Common Core Standards, the college-ready agenda is placed heavily upon all students, while at the same time stressing increased test scores and graduation rates. Consequently, New York's current education system ignores part of the student population that is inclined to other types of education and learning experiences.

“Despite how effective our current college-ready education system is, in many cases it ignores the needs of students who choose another path, such as students interested in a trade. Many of our children excel in these types of skills but are denied this path to a diploma. It’s time for New York to correct that, to recognize the importance of vocational training, and to give all students equal opportunities and acknowledgment.”