Legislation supported by the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) has moved forward in the Senate Education Committee. The proposed bill would require School Report Cards to include data on high school graduates placed in apprenticeships.
Currently, annual accountability reports from the state Department of Education track various metrics for schools and districts, including how many students go on to college. The new bill seeks to ensure apprenticeships are also recognized. NJBIA has recommended that placements in workforce training programs be included as valued postsecondary outcomes.
“High-quality workforce training programs—offered through county colleges, vocational schools, nonprofit providers, and employer-led partnerships—are often the fastest and most effective pathway into in-demand jobs,” said NJBIA Vice President of Government Affairs Althea D. Ford in written testimony submitted to the committee.
“Recognizing placement into these programs validates the real-world outcomes that high schools are increasingly working to deliver and aligns accountability metrics with today’s labor market,” Ford added.
The committee voted to release S. 1733, which is sponsored by Senator Troy Singleton (D-7). Afterward, NJBIA stated it is working with the sponsor to seek future amendments so that School Report Cards also account for workforce training program placements.
Ford emphasized that a broader definition of postsecondary placement could lead to stronger partnerships between employers and training providers while reflecting all available options for students.
“For graduates, it affirms that choosing a skills-based pathway is not a lesser outcome, but a credible, valued route to economic mobility,” Ford said.
“From the perspective of the business community, transparent reporting on workforce training placement helps align education systems with labor demand and strengthens New Jersey’s competitiveness,” Ford continued. “With a modest amendment, S-1773 can better capture success, expand opportunity, and reflect how students truly move from classroom to career.”
The NJBIA represents private-sector employers throughout New Jersey across various sectors and works as the nation’s largest statewide employer association according to its official website. The organization aims to advance competitive excellence and financial success for its members while providing essential information and services. Michele Siekerka serves as president and chief executive officer of NJBIA according to its official website. NJBIA facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities, and academic institutions according to its official website, offering advocacy, practical information, and cost-saving benefits in support of business prosperity.
