Senator Portantino & IBM’s Proposal to Strengthen the High School Career Pathway Passes Education Committee

Sacramento, California- Today, the Senate Education Committee unanimously passed SB 1243 with bi-partisan support. The legislation is authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino, D- La Cañada Flintridge, and sponsored by IBM. SB 1243 proposes a unique early college/high school technology pathway program which is known as P-TECH.

“I am very pleased that this innovative proposal has passed its first committee. This bill will help expand opportunities for all students and will help prepare them for a successful future. P-TECH has been successful in many states and it is important to have it in California’s education toolbox,” commented Senator Portantino

The program which is sponsored by IBM helps students engage in an integrated high school and college coursework. Students graduate with both their high school diploma and industry recognized Associate Degree while receiving mentorships, paid internships, and are the first in line for jobs within their industry. P-TECH is a public-private partnership pathway in technology concept that will aid career technical training and increase employment opportunities for California students.

“P-TECH is a proven game changer for students especially the most disadvantaged. Students are graduating with a college degree at a rate four times the national online community college average and five times for low-income students. We thank Senator Portantino for his leadership and look forward to working with the Senator and education leaders to bring PTECH to students across California.” stated Jennifer Crozier, Vice President, IBM Corporate Citizenship, and President, IBM International Foundation.

Senator Portantino has been a long-time supporter of expanding K-14 education opportunities and has worked to increase funding to improve education access and affordability.  The P-TECH model is currently implemented in 90 schools across the US, Australia and Morocco.