HB 6598 Summary

• Amends Michigan's high school graduation requirements under the Michigan Merit Standard, effective 90 days after enactment, modifying section 1278a of the Revised School Code.

• Requires teacher preparation institutions to train candidates in competency-based instructional models, including individualized pacing, multiple assessment methods, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary integration as a condition of state approval.

• Allows pupils to fulfill certain requirements through alternative pathways including career and technical education programs, online coursework, visual/performing arts, and workforce credentials for years 2016-2024.

• Permits up to 15 high schools designated as specialty schools to be exempt from some English language arts and social science credit requirements if they meet performance criteria including ACT scores 10% above district average, 85%+ graduation rate, and 75%+ postsecondary enrollment.

• Establishes competency-based graduation criteria allowing multiple demonstration methods such as projects, research papers, workforce credentials, and public presentations in place of traditional course completion alone.