H902 - Education and Workforce Innovation Act

• Creates the North Carolina Education and Workforce Innovation Commission with 11 members including the Secretary of Commerce, State Superintendent, university and community college presidents, and business representatives appointed by the Governor and General Assembly.

• Establishes the Education and Workforce Innovation Program to award competitive grants to schools, school districts, or regional partnerships that demonstrate partnerships with higher education institutions and regional businesses.

• Requires all grant applicants to form partnerships with universities or community colleges, partner with regional businesses, and demonstrate sustainability after grant funding ends, with grants spanning a five-year period.

• Mandates matching funds of 25% from local sources and 25% from private sources to accompany state appropriations for grant programs.

• Directs the Commission to publish annual reports on program outcomes including student achievement and employability data, and conduct a study on dual enrollment funding by October 1, 2014.