Virginia Board discusses CTE course options for high school career readiness

The Virginia Board of Education convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and the criteria for high-quality work-based learning experiences. The meeting focused on the necessity of CTE completers and the flexibility of course requirements for students.

The first significant topic addressed was the importance of CTE completers, which are students who complete a sequence of courses that prepare them for career pathways. Board members emphasized that having a structured approach to CTE is essential for students to acquire valuable career skills and set career goals. The discussion highlighted the need for high-quality work-based learning experiences to support these educational pathways.

Two options for CTE course requirements were presented: Option A, which mandates the completion of two CTE courses, and Option B, which allows for the completion of just one CTE course. Flexibility was a recurring theme, with many stakeholders advocating for Option B to alleviate scheduling challenges and reduce barriers for all students, particularly those with special needs or English learners. Public comments indicated strong support for Option B, with approximately 81% of feedback favoring this approach.

The board also discussed the implications of these options on student performance metrics. Data presented showed that implementing high-quality work-based learning could significantly improve school performance ratings. For instance, under Option A, the number of distinguished high schools could increase from 68 to 110, while Option B could yield 120 distinguished high schools.

A key point of contention arose regarding the definition of a CTE completer. Board members clarified that a student must complete a sequence of two aligned CTE courses to be considered a completer. This requirement aims to ensure that students are adequately prepared for industry-recognized credentials, which typically require multiple years of instruction.

The board concluded the meeting by emphasizing the importance of making a decision on the CTE course requirements to finalize the consolidated state plan. They noted that the U.S. Department of Education expects a swift approval process for any minor revisions made to the plan.

In summary, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing CTE pathways while balancing flexibility and rigor in course requirements. The decision between Option A and Option B will have lasting implications for students' career readiness and educational outcomes in Virginia. Further discussions and decisions are anticipated in the coming months as the board continues to refine its approach to CTE education.