MO HB1844

Repeals and replaces sections 160.545, 173.1104, and 173.1105 of Missouri law relating to the A+ Schools Program and student financial assistance eligibility requirements.

Adds new eligibility requirements for A+ program reimbursements requiring students to achieve proficient or advanced scores on Algebra I and English I end-of-course assessments (or equivalent) starting with students who graduate in 2016-17 academic year and later, with limited exemptions for certificate programs.

Establishes eligibility for A+ and Access Missouri awards for students unable to enroll or continue due to illness, disability, pregnancy, medical needs, military service, or service to nonprofits or government agencies, allowing them to resume eligibility within specified timeframes (6-27 months depending on circumstance).

Adds semester credit hour completion requirements for renewal of Access Missouri awards beginning in 2014-15 academic year: 24 hours for first renewal, 48 for second, 72 for third, and 96 for fourth renewal.

Increases Access Missouri award amounts for 2014-15 and subsequent years to $1,300 maximum for public two-year institutions and $2,850 maximum for four-year public institutions and approved private institutions, with potential 10% increase for students completing 30+ semester hours.