SB 403 Summary

• Establishes the STEM Academy Pilot Program administered by the State Regents for Higher Education and State Board of Career and Technology Education to provide high school students with STEM education and skills training.

• Allows participating twelfth-grade students to earn either a certificate through a technology center school or an associate's degree through a two-year Oklahoma higher education institution.

• Requires identification of a corporate partner located near the participating high school to assist in curriculum coordination, provide workplace learning experiences, match students with professional mentors, and offer hiring preference to program graduates.

• Creates the STEM Academy Pilot Program Revolving Fund in the State Treasury to receive and expend state and federal funds, gifts, donations, grants, and endowments for program implementation.

• Takes effect July 1, 2015, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval.