HB486 - Extended Learning Opportunities Act

• Establishes the Extended Learning Opportunities Act allowing K-12 students in Alabama public and charter schools to earn elective credit for approved out-of-classroom learning experiences including enrichment, internships, pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeships.

• Requires State Board of Education and local school boards to inform students and parents beginning in the 2021-2022 school year of the ability to earn credit through approved extended learning opportunities without requiring local school permission.

• Creates an application and approval process for outside entities (nonprofits, businesses, trade associations, Armed Forces) to offer extended learning opportunities that count toward graduation requirements and state standards.

• Students who successfully complete an approved extended learning opportunity and satisfy established criteria receive a certificate of completion and credit that fulfills required coursework, with high school courses counting toward graduation credit hours.

• Authorizes the State Board of Education to adopt rules for implementation and requires policies to provide all students equal opportunity to participate with established timelines for credit transcription and state reporting.