Bill > S2591

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for early college programs in Massachusetts, designed to provide high school students with opportunities to earn college credits before graduating. The legislation requires all public institutions of higher education to develop clear policies for accepting credits from advanced placement exams, early college courses, International Baccalaureate programs, dual enrollment courses, and cooperative education programs. It creates an Office of Early College jointly managed by the commissioners of elementary and secondary education and higher education, which will oversee and monitor early college initiatives, establish standards for program designation, and track student performance. The bill mandates that public high schools offer at least one college or career preparation option, such as early college, dual enrollment, industry credentials, advanced placement, or cooperative education programs. The goal is to increase postsecondary access and success, particularly for underrepresented students, by creating structured pathways that allow high school students to simultaneously earn high school and college credits. An Early College Joint Committee will be responsible for monitoring implementation, approving statewide goals, and ensuring collaboration between educational departments. Additionally, the bill requires annual reporting on program performance and aims to align these educational opportunities with regional workforce development needs.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Higher Education (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2591