This bill focuses on enhancing career education in Iowa by introducing new requirements for middle and high school students. It mandates the Department of Education to create and publish a list of industry-recognized credentials or certifications that students in grades nine through twelve can attain, which will be aligned with career and technical education service areas. Additionally, the bill requires the development of a seal to be affixed to high school transcripts or certificates for students who achieve these credentials. School districts are also tasked with reporting student achievements in obtaining these credentials to the Department of Education, ensuring that this information remains confidential.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing educational requirements for grades five through eight to include career planning and exploration. Specifically, it mandates that students in grades five and six receive instruction on career planning, while students in grades seven and eight will engage in career instruction, exploration, and development. The bill also makes stylistic changes to the subjects taught in these grades but does not alter the fundamental content. Lastly, it specifies that any costs associated with these new mandates will be covered by state school foundation aid, ensuring that school districts are not financially burdened by the implementation of these requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9