Bill > HB1110

This bill modifies the existing law regarding adult high schools in Missouri by lowering the minimum age for enrollment from 21 to 18 years old. The legislation allows the Department of Social Services to authorize up to five Missouri-based nonprofit organizations to establish and operate adult high schools in specific geographical locations across the state. These schools are designed for individuals without a high school diploma, offering a unique educational model that simultaneously provides industry certification programs, high school diplomas, and on-site child care. Key requirements for the nonprofit organizations include demonstrating the ability to establish infrastructure, commit significant funding, provide job placement services, create community partnerships, and develop comprehensive plans to support students with various barriers to education. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will establish academic requirements, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace with flexibility in instruction methods, though most instruction must be in-person. The bill emphasizes that diplomas awarded will be identical to traditional high school diplomas, with no distinguishing marks, and prioritizes admission for students receiving income-based assistance. This approach aims to provide accessible education and workforce training for adults who have not previously completed their high school education.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1110&year=2025&code=R