CS for CS for SB 1368 Summary

• Establishes ACCEL (Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning) program requiring schools to offer minimum acceleration options including whole-grade promotion, subject-matter acceleration, virtual instruction, and Credit Acceleration Program, with additional options such as enriched STEM coursework and advanced academic courses.

• Creates early graduation option allowing high school students to graduate in less than 8 semesters if they complete minimum 24 credits and meet graduation requirements, with continued eligibility for school activities and events.

• Modifies middle grades promotion requirements to include one career-themed course in grades 6-8 that results in a personalized academic and career plan and emphasizes technology application.

• Authorizes school districts to offer career-themed courses and career and professional academies with industry certification opportunities, requiring 3-year strategic planning aligned with workforce development boards and postsecondary institutions.

• Provides funding mechanisms for students completing career-themed courses with industry certification and those graduating early through additional full-time equivalent (FTE) student membership calculations and allows Algebra I end-of-course assessments to be administered four times annually beginning in 2013-2014 school year.