MO HB1428

Establishes the A+ Schools Program administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide grants to public secondary schools demonstrating commitment to student graduation, challenging coursework, and college/vocational school or high-wage job placement.

Requires participating schools to establish measurable performance standards, eliminate general track diplomas, mandate rigorous vocational coursework, and develop partnership plans with local businesses, labor leaders, parents, and post-secondary representatives.

Authorizes reimbursement of tuition, books, and fees for eligible students attending public community colleges, vocational or technical schools, or certain accredited non-profit private vocational or technical schools.

Schools meeting program requirements for three consecutive years receive regulatory waivers from the Commissioner of Education, including exemption from pupil testing requirements and state board classification requirements.

Allows students to fulfill community service requirements by serving as election judges under section 115.085 with agreement between the local election authority and school A+ coordinator, with such absences not counted against student attendance or school average daily attendance.