Bill > HB32

This bill lowers the age for enrollment in adult high schools from 21 to 18 years old and establishes a comprehensive framework for these educational institutions. The bill allows Missouri-based nonprofit organizations to establish up to five adult high schools in specific geographic locations across the state, with the Department of Social Services responsible for authorization and funding. These adult high schools are designed to serve individuals without a high school diploma, offering a unique educational model that combines high school diploma attainment with industry certification programs and on-site child care. The bill specifies detailed requirements for nonprofit organizations seeking to operate these schools, including demonstrating the ability to establish infrastructure, commit substantial funding, and provide comprehensive support services for students facing educational barriers. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will establish academic requirements, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace and earn diplomas that are equivalent to traditional high school diplomas. The bill also prioritizes admitting students receiving local, state, or federal assistance and includes a provision that students transferring to adult high schools will not be counted as dropouts in local education agency statistics. The overall goal is to create flexible educational opportunities for adults to earn their high school diploma and gain industry certifications to improve their workforce potential.

Budget and Finance, Education, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB32&year=2025&code=R