CA AB542

Allows school districts with continuation high schools or continuation education classes to offer youth workforce development programs on 1-2 weekdays per school week, provided students remain enrolled in at least 15 hours of class attendance weekly

Defines "youth workforce development programs" as supervised programs enabling students to earn academic credit or industry certificates through workplace experiences and training, aimed at helping students obtain employment at livable wages after graduation

Requires programs to partner with community college districts, adult education programs, regional occupational programs, workforce development programs accredited by WASC, or organizations offering industry-recognized certifications

Mandates school districts implementing these programs to establish procedures for tracking student attendance and participation in workforce development activities

Current law limits continuation school students to 15 hours of attendance credit per school week at 180 minutes per day of attendance; this bill creates an exception for workforce development participation