(a)  The board of education shall establish and maintain a system of career and technical education that maintains ongoing connections with higher education and meets the needs of local business and industry, and promotes workforce development.

(b)  The board of education shall also create, subject to § 16-45.1-1 and § 16-45.1-2(a), a career and technical board of trustees that shall be responsible for ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated career and technical system with the state of Rhode Island.