Student Success Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank my good friend and cochairman of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, Mr. Langevin, for working with me on this amendment and his leadership. We believe it is vitally important that flexibility be provided to local school districts as they explore options for students
to earn academic credit through internships or apprenticeships.

Unfortunately, too often, our schools have subscribed to a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the opportunities available to all students.

It is expected that all graduates will be going on to a 4-year postsecondary school or program. Mr. Chairman, this is a false premise. It is not realistic and certainly not fair to students.

While every child should leave high school college and career ready, it is imperative that we allow school districts to assist young learners in career exploration and the positive gains that can be achieved through real-world work experiences.

This amendment provides flexibility for school districts to provide credit for achieving these real-world academic experiences. I encourage support of this amendment.

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