Bill > H6237

This bill creates a two-year pilot student cultural exchange program administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) that will enable high school seniors to spend a week with a host family in another state, exploring cultural, political, and socioeconomic differences. The program, which will run from August 2026 to August 2028, aims to involve 5-10 schools and promote student diversity in participation. To support the initiative, the bill establishes a dedicated Cultural Exchange Program Fund that can receive money from state categorical education aid, legislative appropriations, and private donations. The fund will be used specifically to provide grants to students and cover program implementation costs. DESE is required to submit a report by September 2028 detailing program participation and potentially recommending legislative changes. The program is set to expire on August 1, 2028, unless the General Assembly chooses to extend it, with the ultimate goal of creating a permanent, ongoing cultural exchange opportunity for students to broaden their understanding of different communities within the United States.

Budget and Finance

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