Resolution 210087

..Title Recognizing February 2021 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Awareness Month in Philadelphia. ..Body WHEREAS, February 2021 has been designated CTE Month by the Association for CTE; and WHEREAS, CTE offers students the opportunity to gain the academic, technical and employability skills necessary for true career readiness; and WHEREAS, Philadelphia has over 120 CTE curriculums in more than 30 schools; and WHEREAS, Students in CTE programs participate in authentic, meaningful experiences that improve the quality of their education and increase their engagement and achievement; and WHEREAS, CTE provides students with career exploration opportunities earlier in their educational experience, which enables them to make informed and beneficial decisions about their academic coursework, and pursue established programs of study and career pathways; and WHEREAS, Leaders from business and industry nationwide report increasing challenges related to addressing the skills gap and connecting qualified professionals with available careers in critical and growing CTE-related fields, including healthcare, energy, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and information technology; and WHEREAS, CTE prepares students for these and other fulfilling careers by offering integrated programs of study that link secondary and postsecondary education, and lead to the attainment of industry-recognized credentials; and WHEREAS, CTE programs ensure that employers have access to a qualified and thriving workforce, ensuring America is a strong and competitive economy; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize February 2021 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Awareness Month in Philadelphia. ..End