STATEHOUSE (Jan. 30, 2013) — Legislation authored by State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn) to enhance vocational education for high school students passed the Senate Committee on Education and Career Development today by a vote of 8-0.

Senate Bill 465 would establish Indiana Works Councils for designated geographic regions throughout Indiana with members appointed by the governor. These groups would be tasked with preparing and submitting an evaluation of the career, technical and vocational education opportunities available to high school students in the area.

“When our students leave high school, we want them to be prepared for whatever future they choose for themselves,” Kruse said. “Works Councils will allow us to continually monitor how well our schools serve students who choose to pursue a career right after graduation.”

If a Works Council determines the vocational education opportunities for students in its region are inadequate, the bill provides that members may develop an alternative curriculum that is subject to the approval of the State Board of Education.

“This will ensure our children are career-ready and competitive in a global economy,” Kruse said. “My hope is that this will set a standard where Hoosier students are the types of employees that companies want to hire.”

SB 465 now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.