Heck Introduces Career and Technical Education Legislation
LAS VEGAS - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today announced the introduction of the Career and Technical Education Equity Act at Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy in Las Vegas.
The legislation will ensure Nevada continues to receive its share of federal career and technical education (CTE) funding by repealing the current unfair, outdated hold harmless provision in the funding formula. According to a report by the Congressional Research Service, it is estimated that the Heck legislation will increase Nevada’s share of federal CTE funding by 2.6% within three years of enactment.
"Career and technical education is critically important to both Nevada's education system and our economy," Rep. Heck said. "Students who pursue CTE perform well in school because they have a vision of what they want to do in the future. Whether that vision is to work in information technology, agriculture, or public safety, Nevada's CTE programs provide our students with a strong educational and vocational foundation to take into the professional world. We must ensure that Nevada continues to receive its share of federal funding for career and technical education so the programs in which our students are engaged can continue to provide the skills and training they need to be successful in the future. The Career and Technical Education Equity Act does exactly that and I am committed to getting this bill passed in the near future."
Rep. Heck announced introduction of the bill during a visit to Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy, a school that relies on CTE funds to offer students educational opportunities in the following majors: Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, Crime Scene Investigation, Criminal Justice, and 911 Dispatch.
On hand for the event were Craig Statucki, Executive Director Nevada ACTE, and Tammy Boffelli, Principal of Veterans Tribute CTA. They offered the following comments about Congressman Heck's bill:
“Congressman Heck has been working for years to support CTE programs and the federal funding of these great opportunities for students. The Nevada Association of Career and Technical Education and I fully support Congressman Heck’s efforts and introduction of the CTE Equity Act.” - Craig Statucki, Executive Director Nevada ACTE
“Career and technical education (CTE) has been an integral element in our economic and workforce development. It has been the connection to economic expansion in Nevada by bringing education, training and meaningful credentials to the forefront. CTE students thrive by truly understanding the opportunities available in our community as well as realistic expectations of those related fields. CTE funding has provided support for programs of study to prepare tomorrow’s workforce. This funding has assisted schools like Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy (VTCTA) to purchase integral equipment, technology, software, and instructional supplies.” - Tammy Boffelli, Principal, VTCTA
It is expected that Rep. Heck's bill will be considered when the House Committee on Education and the Workforce begins the reauthorization process for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006.
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Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.