§ 16-80-3. Purpose and intent.

The purpose and legislative intent of this chapter is:

(1) To establish a state framework within which state departments can create an interagency mechanism to develop, implement and maintain a statewide system of school-to work transition;

(2) To establish a state framework to promote the formation of local partnerships that link the worlds of school and work among schools and post-secondary educational institutions, private and public employers, labor organizations, government, community based organizations, parents, students, state educational, training, human service and economic development agencies and that will provide all students with opportunities to participate in education and training programs that will prepare them for high skill, high wage careers, further education and training and lifelong learning.

(3) To establish a system that ensures that females, minority students, limited-English proficient students and students with disabilities are provided with equitable opportunities to both participate in and benefit from apprenticeships and careers in skilled trades and advanced technology by providing them with necessary modifications and support to succeed;

(4) To utilize federal funds to develop, implement, and maintain a statewide school-to-work system.