OLYMPIA – Thousands of Washington students take Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit courses each year, yet many never utilize the credits they’ve earned. A new bill, introduced by Rep. Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor), who is also Chair of the House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Committee, seeks to change that. House Bill 1273 extends a pilot program that removes financial barriers and ensures more students can successfully apply their credits toward postsecondary credentials. It also requires state education agencies to report on implementation and recommend improvements to dual credit policies.
CTE Dual Credit provides high school students with early exposure to workforce training and higher education while earning postsecondary credentials. In 2023, over 56,000 students enrolled in these courses. Yet only 3% of students used these credits to earn a credential in a related field. Many students, especially in rural areas, are unaware of credit opportunities due to outdated systems and administrative barriers.
Rep. Dave Paul (D-10th District) emphasized the need for stronger credit transfer policies saying, “we need to do a better job of helping students understand their options and ensuring these credits count toward their future goals. Strengthening CTE dual credit programs is a crucial investment in Washington’s future workforce.”
HB 1273 passed the House of Representatives today with a unanimous vote. It awaits further consideration in the Senate. Learn more by clicking here or on the video below:
