Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi and Senator David Valesky are pushing the 21st Century Education Initiative.

Brindisi says the legislation would create a new specialized Career and Technical Diploma (CTE) which will train students to fill the many jobs available in manufacturing and high-tech fields.

Brindisi and Valesky say the diploma will allow students to continue apprenticeships they started in high school, or allow them to go on to college for additional opportunities.

One of the first things we learn in school is our ABC's," Brindisi said.  "Senator Valesky and I are tying this plan to those three letters. Through advocacy, business outreach, and community engagement with our schools and students, we will continue pushing New York State to pass this proposal with flying colors.  We want more students to hold a diploma that will lead to a good paycheck and we want our manufacturers to get the trained workers they need to grow."

"Manufacturing and technical professions require a different skill set today than 20 years ago, and employers have told us they are having difficulty finding qualified applicants," Valesky said.  "This legislation will provide a pathway for students in high school who want to enter these highly specialized fields to acquire knowledge, skills, and work experience to become the next generation of leaders in these growing industries."

The two lawmakers say they have over 65 sponsors for the bill.

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