Public Sector Opportunities and Linkages with Vocational Education.

Overview & Synopsis

The Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act reaffirms, expands, and strengthens the Federal commitment to quality vocational programs. As stated in the Act, vocational education programs are best administered by states and their communities; the Federal Government is a junior partner with a catalytic role. The law has two major purposes--to improve the quality of vocational education programs and to make vocational education programs accessible to all people. Five titles cover assistance to the states, basic grants, special programs, national programs, and definitions. The State Board of Vocational Education is the sole state agency responsible for administration and distribution of Federal funds. The State Council on Vocational Education advises the State Board on the State Plan and reports to the governor, business community, and general public. The apprenticeship provisions of the Act offer some important linkage opportunities with the home building industry. This legislation supports an even stronger alliance among vocational education, apprenticeship, and private industry. Specific key citations in the Act that offer meaningful opportunities for the home building industry include those on institutional and worksite programs, building more effective linkages between education and private sector employers, and related instruction for apprentices. (YLB)