Bill > S945

This bill establishes a Massachusetts Community College Career Pathways Trust Fund designed to support low-income students, particularly those receiving cash assistance through transitional aid to families with dependent children, in pursuing certificate or two-year degree programs. The bill creates education opportunity coordinator positions at community colleges to help these students develop career plans, access financial aid and work-study opportunities, and obtain additional supports like childcare and transportation assistance. The trust fund will provide state work-study employment opportunities for eligible students, with preference given to cash assistance recipients, and will fund jobs at community colleges, off-campus career development placements, or community service positions. Students can work up to 15 hours per week during enrollment and 40 hours during vacation periods, will be paid competitive wages, and may receive academic credit for their work experiences. The bill requires Bunker Hill Community College, through the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges, to file annual reports tracking student enrollment, success rates, and employment outcomes, without using personal identifying information. Additionally, the bill instructs the Department of Transitional Assistance to help connect individuals receiving cash assistance with these educational opportunities to improve their long-term career prospects.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S945