FL S1844

Replaces references to local workforce boards with regional workforce boards and requires economic development agencies to collaborate with school districts, regional workforce boards, and postsecondary institutions to develop strategic 5-year plans addressing workforce demands.

Requires career and professional academies to discontinue enrollment if the industry certification exam passage rate falls below 50 percent, and establishes State Board of Education approval process for determining funding weights of industry certifications.

Mandates each district school board implement at least one middle school career and professional academy beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, with students earning industry certificates, high school credit, and participating in career planning activities.

Establishes qualifications for nondegreed career and technical education teachers based primarily on occupational experience and industry certifications, allowing district school boards to set alternative qualifications for certified teachers.

Adds middle school career and professional academy participation and industry certification achievement as factors in school grades beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, and directs the Department of Education to collect and report student achievement data for these programs.