(The Center Square) – Georgia high school students planning to forgo college and enter high-demand career fields can gain real-world experience before graduation through a new diploma approved by the State Board of Education.
The Work-Based Learning Diploma still requires 23 credit hours for graduation, but also offers a Career, Technical and Agricultural Education pathway, known as CTAE, according to the Georgia Department of Education.
Four courses in the graduation pathway are work-based and in a paid position connected to a high-demand CTAE or Academic Career Pathway. Students can explore pathways in Georgia schools that include agriculture, digital technology and advanced manufacturing.
The Education Department will share more details in the coming weeks, according to information provided by the department.
“As a former CTAE Director, I have watched students discover new possibilities for their futures when learning extends beyond the classroom walls,” said Phenna Petty, chairwoman of the State Board of Education in a statement. “This diploma recognizes the hard work of students who have invested deeply in career-focused coursework and real-world learning opportunities.”
Outgoing Gov. Brian Kemp focused on workforce development during the last two sessions of his term. The General Assembly backed the governor’s “Top State for Talent Iniatiive” that “focuses on breaking down silos between education and workforce systems,” according to its website.
The top in-demand industries in the Peach State range from advanced academic to transportation, distribution and logistics.
“We must continue to expand opportunities for students that align not only to their passions but also to the workforce needs of our state,” state School Superintendent Richard Woods said in a statement. “This diploma is about recognizing that workforce readiness matters. We want students to graduate with meaningful experience, real skills, and a clear connection to high-demand careers.”