Bill > HB2216

This bill establishes a new "trade pathways diploma program" for Arizona high school students aiming for careers in construction, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or utility-infrastructure trades, requiring the State Board of Education to develop this program by July 1, 2027, in consultation with various educational institutions, government agencies, and industry professionals to ensure its requirements align with in-demand jobs and include a maximum of two math and two science credits, while allowing students to earn credits through career and technical education courses leading to certifications or employment, paid internships, registered apprenticeships, community college courses, or even remote instruction. The bill also mandates cooperation among educational entities to create a statewide system for seamless transfer of students into community colleges and apprenticeship programs, and allows the Office of Economic Opportunity to use federal workforce development funds to incentivize employers to offer these work-based programs. Furthermore, the Department of Education will be required to submit an annual report starting in December 2029 detailing student participation, credentials earned, employer retention rates, and average wages for those in the trade pathways program, and students who earn this specialized diploma will be exempt from standard high school graduation requirements and will have the same rights and privileges as those with a traditional diploma, including access to postsecondary education and financial aid.

Education

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83913