S.R. NO. 153 Summary

• Request the Department of Education to conduct a study assessing the adequacy of vocational education programs to prepare students for vocational careers.

• Study must identify vocational career fields in Hawaii with current or projected demand for skilled workers, requiring no four-year degree, and offering middle-class wages.

• Assess accessibility and availability of current vocational course offerings and develop a plan to address any identified deficiencies.

• Include recommendations and strategies to attract and retain qualified vocational teachers and eliminate barriers to hiring qualified instructors.

• Submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the Regular Session of 2020, including cost estimates or funding proposals.