Bill > HB4980

This bill establishes the Child-Care Professional Pathway program, which allows high school students in grades 11 and 12 to simultaneously earn their high school diploma and a professional child care credential through partnerships between school districts or charter schools and institutions of higher education. The program enables students to enroll in courses that lead to a Child Development Associate credential or an associate degree in fields related to child care, such as human development, psychology, or early childhood education, at no cost to the student. Participating school districts must allow eligible students to enroll in these courses and ensure that students can simultaneously satisfy high school graduation requirements. The bill allows for the substitution of one high school graduation credit with a child-care professional education course, with limitations on how many credits can be substituted. The program will begin in the 2025-2026 school year, and the Texas Commissioner of Education is tasked with establishing program rules, approving partnerships, and overseeing implementation. The goal is to provide a structured pathway for students to gain professional credentials in child care while completing their high school education.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4980