Edly-Allen Measure Promoting Career and Technical Education Options Signed into Law

LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Mary Edly-Allen, D-Libertyville, to encourage high school counselors to provide students with options on all post-secondary options including career and technical education pathways was signed into law.

“I’ve met with many different job creators in our community who are ready and willing to hire workers into high-paying jobs, but there is a lack of highly skilled workers available and these companies  abandon or delay their plans to expand,” said Edly-Allen. “The lack of skilled labor hurts our entire economy and denies opportunity to potential workers. Four year universities and colleges are not the only pathways to long, stable, and prosperous careers; vocational and technical education can open doors for many students who may not even be aware that these opportunities exist. By providing a student with comprehensive information on every option after high school, we help ensure that high school students have a bright future.”

Edly-Allen’s House Bill 3652 requires high school counselors to provide students with information on all post-secondary options including four year colleges, community colleges, and career and technical education schools.

“Illinois school counselors have been leading the way nationally in regards to the implementation of career pathways and transition to postsecondary so it only makes sense to have a legislation that supports this work,” said Matt Liberatore, President of the Illinois Student Counseling Association. “With the increasing opportunities around certificates programs, registered apprenticeships, and workplace learning it is important for counselors to educate and present all available multiple postsecondary pathways that align with a student’s desired goals.”