TOPEKA (AP) – The Kansas Senate has given first-round approval to Gov. Sam Brownback’s plan to modify technical education programs.

The measure advanced Wednesday on a voice vote. Final action planned for Thursday would send the bill to the House.

The proposal would provide incentives for high school students who don’t plan to pursue four-year degrees and are interested in a career in a vocational or technical program. The plan would allow them to earn certificates in qualified programs through community or technical colleges while still in high school.

Financial incentives would be included to encourage high schools and technical schools to develop the certificate programs and get students trained.

That could make local school officials happy, considering the Hutchinson School District has the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy. Dr. Shelly Kiblinger, Superintendent if the Hutchinson School District stated in an Eagle Radio interview this week, that she believes that’s one portion of the governor’s plan for education that has some merit.

The plan voted on Wednesday was part of Brownback’s school finance proposal.