Bill > SB845

This bill significantly expands and clarifies opportunities for students to engage in work-based learning, which refers to hands-on experiences in real or simulated workplace settings designed to connect classroom learning with career skills. It broadens the types of entities that can offer these experiences, including county offices of education, charter schools, and state special schools, in addition to existing school districts. The bill defines various terms related to work-based learning, such as "internship," "mentorship," and "youth apprenticeship program," which is a program for young people aged 16-24 participating in registered apprenticeships. It allows students to earn high school credit for these experiences, including for those in 10th grade, and ensures that students participating in work-based learning activities receive the same protections as those in work experience programs. Furthermore, the bill integrates work-based learning into various state-funded programs like the Golden State Pathways Program and the California Career Technical Education Incentive Grant Program, aiming to better prepare students for college and careers by providing them with practical skills and industry exposure. It also updates regulations for preapprenticeship programs, which are training programs designed to prepare individuals for registered apprenticeships, by allowing them to be approved based on partnerships with local building and construction trades councils in addition to existing apprenticeship programs.