SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 227

WHEREAS, Students across Texas benefit greatly from the learning experiences provided by career and technical courses, and February 2015 is being observed as National Career and Technical Education Month in recognition of the role that these programs play in fostering a thriving workforce; and

WHEREAS, More than 1.1 million of the state's secondary students are currently enrolled in at least one career and technical education course in 1,227 school districts and charter schools throughout the Lone Star State; such classes allow young Texans to apply knowledge and skills from across the curriculum in real-life situations, deepening their understanding of their coursework; through this program, students gain the opportunity to explore careers earlier in their education, which enables them to make informed decisions about their academic and vocational goals; and

WHEREAS, Career and technical education programs help students build a rewarding future by preparing them for college and teaching them skills that are sought after in a wide variety of professional fields; moreover, these courses are an integral part of the Texas Foundation High School Program, the new state-mandated graduation plan that allows students to earn endorsements, performance acknowledgements, and credentials recognized by industry professionals; and

WHEREAS, The advantages afforded by career and technical education are not just limited to students enrolled in those courses; at a time when business leaders nationwide report

a shortage of applicants in critical and growing fields, career and technical education programs support the development of a dedicated and highly qualified workforce, ensuring the success of American industries and the nation's continued global competitiveness; and

WHEREAS, Texans who pursue career and technical education acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become productive citizens and engaged community leaders, and in so doing, they are playing an instrumental part in building a state that is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby recognize February 2015 as National Career and Technical Education Month in Texas and extend appreciation to all of the state's career and technical education teachers for their service to young Texans. Kolkhorst

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 23, 2015.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate