An Act to create and expand student pathways to success

HD 961 establishes a "workforce skills cabinet" within the governor's office to coordinate career and college readiness programs across state agencies. The cabinet, composed of education, workforce, and business leaders, must conduct a biennial audit of high school career pathways (like vocational programs) to ensure they align with job market needs and student outcomes, including equity analysis. It also requires an annual report on labor market trends and workforce needs to guide state investments. This bill directly affects Massachusetts high school students by shaping their access to career-focused education programs and influences state agencies like education and workforce development departments.