Bill > HB2896

This bill modifies provisions related to the governing bodies of certain public higher education institutions and establishes a Workforce Diploma Program. The Workforce Diploma Program, administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, aims to help individuals aged 21 and older who haven't earned a high school diploma obtain one while developing employability and career technical skills. Approved program providers, which must be accredited and have experience in adult dropout recovery, will be reimbursed for student milestones such as earning high school credits, obtaining employability skills certifications, earning industry-recognized credentials, and ultimately graduating. The bill also adjusts residency requirements for board members at institutions like Harris-Stowe State University, Northwest Missouri State University, Missouri Southern State University, and Truman State University, generally limiting the number of board members who can reside in the county where the institution's main office is located, and modifies appointment criteria for the Missouri State University Board of Governors to ensure broader representation across congressional districts. Additionally, it makes changes to the agricultural education program, extending its pilot phase and refining its implementation and reporting requirements.