WHEREAS, in the Great State of Alaska, we strive towards the betterment of our citizens and look to provide every individual with access to quality educational opportunities; and
WHEREAS, career and technical education (CTE) provides students with the knowledge, academic and technical skills, and training necessary to flourish in future careers and to become lifelong learners; and
WHEREAS, the high school graduation rate for students who complete two CTE courses in a single career pathway is 96.3 percent, with over 2,577 high school students in Alaska reported as concentrated in these pathways, with an additional 12,502 students enrolled in at least one CTE course; and
WHEREAS, CTE provides students with career exploration opportunities and hands-on, meaningful experiences earlier in their academic careers, which enables them to make informed decisions about their coursework as well as pursue established programs of study and career pathways; and
WHEREAS, CTE prepares students for the workforce by introducing them to workplace competencies, and making academic content accessible through practical, real-world application; and
WHEREAS, the Nation and Alaska are facing an employee shortage and CTE can train and educate our students locally, increasing the probability that they will remain in the State and contribute to Alaska’s economy; and
WHEREAS, guaranteeing that Alaskan employers have access to a wide pool of qualified workforce is a crucial step in ensuring that businesses and industries can grow and thrive in Alaska, and compete globally.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim February 2025 as:
Career and Technical Education Month
in Alaska and encourage Alaskans to learn about the opportunities and benefits created by CTE programs in our State and to support and participate in these programs.
Dated: February 1, 2025
