(a) The department of education is encouraged to begin preparing students in middle school grades for a career and technical education (CTE) pathway by introducing students to career exploration opportunities that allow students to explore a wide variety of high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand career fields.

(b) The department of education is encouraged to:

(1) Provide career exploration and career development activities through an organized, systematic framework designed to aid students in the middle school grades, before enrolling and while participating in a career and technical education program, in making informed plans and decisions about future education and career opportunities and programs of study, which may include:

(A) Introductory courses or activities focused on career exploration and career awareness, including nontraditional fields;

(B) Readily available career and labor market information, including information on:

(i) Occupational supply and demand;

(ii) Educational requirements;

(iii) Other information on careers aligned to state or local priorities, as applicable; and

(iv) Employment sectors;

(C) Programs and activities related to the development of student graduation and career plans;

(D) Career guidance and academic counselors that provide information on postsecondary education and career options;

(E) Any other activity that advances knowledge of career opportunities and assists students in making informed decisions about future education and employment goals, including nontraditional fields; or

(F) Providing students with strong experience in, and a comprehensive understanding of, all aspects of an industry; and

(2) Provide professional development opportunities for teachers and faculty related to CTE for students in middle school grades.