Governor’s Bill No. 6869 seeks to enhance dual credit opportunities for high school students in Connecticut by amending existing laws related to high school graduation requirements. The bill allows local or regional boards of education to grant credit for various educational experiences, including dual credit courses, which are defined as high school courses offered in partnership with higher education institutions that provide both high school and college credit. It repeals outdated provisions concerning dual enrollment and early college programs, while introducing new pathways for credit acquisition, such as successful completion of dual credit courses, proficiency examinations, and online coursework. The bill also requires the Department of Education to inform parents of students in grades eight to eleven about available challenging curriculum opportunities and postsecondary credit courses.

Furthermore, the legislation establishes new definitions for "concurrent enrollment programs" and "dual enrollment programs," effective July 1, 2025, and mandates that institutions offering concurrent enrollment programs obtain accreditation by July 1, 2028. Institutions must report specific information about enrolled high school students to the Department of Education annually, starting August 1, 2025. The bill amends several sections of the general statutes, specifically sections 10-221a(h), 10-221x(d), and 10-221w, while introducing new legal language to improve the structure and accountability of these educational programs.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 10-221x, 10-221w