Wisconsin's Department of Public Instruction has outlined a business education program that includes training in information technology (IT) in grades K-4 and training in IT and management in grades 5-8. In grades 9-12, Wisconsin students receive training in IT, management, and financial services. Students in grades 9-12 also have opportunities to participate in work- and school-based learning programs, including cooperative business education, employability skills training, youth apprenticeships, and specialty certification courses. The following are among the beliefs held by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction with respect to business education: (1) IT is an important part of the entire educational process for all age levels; (2) students need financial knowledge to ensure that they make the best decisions both personally and professionally; (3) comprehensive business programs must have occupational preparation components; (5) business education's mission is to teach students about business and prepare them for careers in business; (6) students need to explore careers and develop business skills necessary to make meaningful decisions in a variety of business careers; (7) aligning the K-12 business curriculum within districts is critical to the advancement of students' business skills and knowledge; and (8) active involvement of advisory committees in business education is important. (MN)