Tennessee § 49-11-110 - Preparation of students in middle school grades for career and technical education pathway.

§ 49-11-110. Preparation of students in middle school grades for career and technical education pathway.

The department of education is encouraged to begin preparing students in middle school grades for a career and technical education (CTE) pathway by introducing students to career exploration opportunities that allow students to explore a wide variety of high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand career fields. The department of education is encouraged to: Provide career exploration and career development activities through an organized, systematic framework designed to aid students in the middle school grades, before enrolling and while participating in a career and technical education program, in making informed plans and decisions about future education and career opportunities and programs of study, which may include: Introductory courses or activities focused on career exploration and career awareness, including nontraditional fields; Readily available career and labor market information, including information on: Occupational supply and demand; Educational requirements; Other information on careers aligned to state or local priorities, as applicable; and Employment sectors; Programs and activities related to the development of student graduation and career plans; Career guidance and academic counselors that provide information on postsecondary education and career options; Any other activity that advances knowledge of career opportunities and assists students in making informed decisions about future education and employment goals, including nontraditional fields; or Providing students with strong experience in, and a comprehensive understanding of, all aspects of an industry; and Provide professional development opportunities for teachers and faculty related to CTE for students in middle school grades. Acts 2019, ch. 366, § 7.