SB 1653 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 11-103.6 to add STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) block courses as eligible options for meeting mathematics and science graduation requirements.

• Allows STEM block courses to be taught at either comprehensive high schools or technology center schools when taken in grades 10-12 by certified teachers with State Board and district approval.

• Permits mathematics and science courses taught at technology center schools by certified secondary subject area teachers to count toward graduation requirements when taken in grades 10-12 with State Board and district approval.

• Requires the State Board of Education to consult with the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education when approving vocational-technical courses and STEM block courses offered at technology center school districts.

• Effective date July 1, 2014, with emergency declaration for immediate effect.