Bill 118 hr 4819, also known as the Student Debt Alternative and CTE Awareness Act, aims to address the issue of student debt and increase awareness of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 15, 2021.
One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a pilot program that would allow students to use federal student aid funds to pursue alternative education and training programs, such as apprenticeships or industry-recognized certifications. This is intended to provide students with more options for acquiring valuable skills and knowledge without accumulating large amounts of student debt.
Additionally, the bill seeks to increase awareness of CTE programs by requiring the Department of Education to develop and implement a national campaign to promote the benefits of CTE and encourage students to consider these programs as a viable post-secondary education option. This campaign would include outreach to students, parents, educators, and employers to highlight the value of CTE in preparing students for successful careers.
Overall, the Student Debt Alternative and CTE Awareness Act aims to provide students with more opportunities to pursue education and training that aligns with their career goals, while also promoting the benefits of CTE programs as a valuable pathway to success.