Bill > SB278

This bill revises Montana's education laws to support advanced opportunities by establishing a new role called an "advanced opportunity facilitator" who will coordinate between school districts, students, families, postsecondary institutions, employers, and community organizations to help students access educational and career advancement opportunities. The bill defines an advanced opportunity as any course, exam, or learning opportunity designed to help students in grades 6-12 succeed in postsecondary education or careers. School districts can now use a portion of their advanced opportunity aid to employ these facilitators, and districts qualifying for the program can receive additional funding to cover the facilitator's salary. The bill also expands how districts can spend their advanced opportunity aid, allowing them to cover costs like dual credit tuition, exam fees, work-based learning expenses, industry credential fees, and other activities that support students' educational and career goals. Additionally, the bill ensures that at least 75% of the advanced opportunity aid must be used to directly reduce out-of-pocket costs for students participating in these opportunities. The changes are designed to create more personalized and flexible pathways for students to explore and prepare for their future educational and career options.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Education

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3223