High school diplomas: State Seal of Career Technical Education Pathway Completion.

Existing law declares the need to have a well-educated and highly skilled workforce in the state. Existing law establishes the Golden State Seal Merit Diploma for the purpose of recognizing pupils who have mastered the high school curriculum. Existing law also establishes the State Seal of Biliteracy to recognize high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English and the State Seal of Civic Engagement to recognize high school graduates who have demonstrated excellence in civics education and participation and have demonstrated an understanding of the federal and state constitutions and the democratic system of government. This bill would establish a State Seal of Career Technical Education Pathway Completion to recognize high school graduates who have attained a high level of knowledge and proficiency in career technical education pathways. The bill would establish criteria for the receipt of the State Seal of Career Technical Education Pathway Completion, would require the Superintendent of Public Instruction to prepare and deliver to participating school districts an appropriate insignia to be affixed to pupil diplomas or transcripts, and would require participating school districts to maintain appropriate records, affix the appropriate insignia to diplomas or transcripts of recipient pupils, and provide pupil support staff and programs to ensure equitable pupil access and success in completing seal requirements and evaluating postsecondary options. The bill would not become operative unless the State Board of Education, in a public meeting, makes specified declarations.