Bill > H426

This bill establishes the Workforce Diploma Program, a two-year initiative run by the North Carolina Community Colleges System Office to help adults aged 21 and older who lack a high school diploma earn their diploma while developing career skills. The program will contract with third-party entities that have experience administering adult high school diploma programs to provide comprehensive educational support, including competency-based courses, career advising, employability skills training, and workforce credential preparation. Eligible participants will receive personalized learning plans, mentoring, and access to online tutoring, with funding provided on a milestone basis—ranging from $275 for half-credit completion to $1,100 for earning a full high school diploma, with a maximum of $7,500 per participant. The program is funded with $5 million in nonrecurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with up to $100,000 allocated for administrative staff. The Community Colleges System Office will be required to submit interim and final reports detailing participant outcomes, including the number of credits earned, certifications issued, workforce credentials obtained, and diplomas completed. The program is set to begin on July 1, 2025, and will run through the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H426