CA AB35

Allows completion of a career technical education course as an alternative to visual or performing arts or foreign language requirements for high school graduation, effective from 2011-12 school year through July 1, 2016.

Requires the State Department of Education to report to the Legislature by January 1, 2015, on the number of pupils who took career technical education courses to fulfill graduation requirements and factors influencing their choices.

Mandates the California Workforce Investment Board, Office of the Chancellor of California Community Colleges, and Board of Governors of California Community Colleges to develop a strategic plan by July 1, 2011, connecting education and workforce development in the state.

Requires the strategic plan to address alignment of workforce needs with postsecondary education programs, methods for closing skills gaps, and improved data collection on future workforce needs.

Designates the Office of the Chancellor to provide staffing and resources necessary for developing and reporting the strategic plan.