MA H686

School districts would receive $1,000 per student who earns an industry-recognized certification for high employment value occupations (as determined by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development) or certifications accepted for academic credit at Massachusetts public higher education institutions

Districts would receive $800 per student earning certifications that address regional workforce demands identified by local MassHire Workforce Boards

Cooperative education programs, internships, and apprenticeships deemed equivalent to high-value certifications may also qualify for $1,000 per student awards at the Department's discretion

At least 80% of certification awards must go to the specific school whose students earned the credentials, and funds must support program maintenance, instructor stipends, or fee subsidies for low-income students—not basic school operations

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must publish annual reports tracking students pursuing certifications (including low-income, ELL, and SPED demographics), certifications earned, and funding adequacy