Virginia Foxx: “February is Career and Technical Education Month. I join the Nation in commending all the educators who play a vital…”

“February is Career and Technical Education Month. I join the Nation in commending all the educators who play a vital role in preparing America's students for prosperity in the 21st century economy. However, there is often a disconnect between the curriculum taught at schools and the skills required for in-demand jobs. There are currently 9 million unfilled jobs in the United States, and job creators are struggling to find qualified workers. Career and technical education programs offer a practical solution to bridge this skills gap. These programs offer students hands-on experience and skills that will allow them to excel in the workforce. By equipping students with the competencies they need to be successful on the job, career and technical education programs give participants an invaluable head start. Building a strong, skilled workforce is a national priority. Now is the time to strengthen career and technical education. Mr. Speaker, last week, the Committee on Education and the Workforce advanced the College Cost Reduction Act, CCRA, a landmark bill that would lower the cost of postsecondary education and provide much-needed relief for countless students and families. For too long, colleges have been given free rein to charge exorbitant tuition for degrees without a worthwhile economic benefit. This legislation would ensure that that is no longer the case. Don't take my word for it.…”