NC H733

Establishes a two-year pilot program (2019-2020 and 2020-2021 school years) in up to 25 North Carolina school districts to implement Plasma Games' STEM-focused educational software in chemistry, physical science, and career and technical education classes.

Targets high school students to bridge chemistry and science education with career pathways in pharmaceutical, agricultural technology, biotechnology, textile, material science, energy, minerals and mining, and chemical manufacturing industries.

Appropriates $1,500,000 in nonrecurring funds for fiscal year 2019-2020 and an additional $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2020-2021 to cover software licensing fees, Plasma Games operating costs, and implementation expenses.

Requires participating school districts to submit implementation plans including professional development for teachers and administrators, with interim reports due May 1, 2020, and final reports due May 1, 2021.

Mandates the Education and Workforce Innovation Commission to report to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by June 1, 2020 (interim) and June 1, 2021 (final) on student outcomes, fund expenditure, and recommendations for statewide expansion.