SB253 Summary

• Establishes the Alabama Workforce Pathways diploma as an alternative pathway for high school students planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

• Reduces math and science credit requirements for Workforce Pathways students from 4 credits each to 2 credits each, with career and technical education courses substituting for the reduced requirements.

• All students earning a Workforce Pathways diploma receive the same high school diploma as other students, with an identifying seal to distinguish the pathway taken.

• State Department of Education must develop curriculum for the program within 120 days of State Board of Education approval and work with local boards to implement the pathway statewide.

• Graduates of the Workforce Pathways program are eligible for admission to any postsecondary institution or public university in Alabama, though institutions may maintain their own admission requirements.

• Act becomes effective October 1, 2024.