This bill aims to enhance career education in Iowa by modifying existing provisions related to career academies, articulation agreements between community colleges and the state board of regents, concurrent enrollment programs, and individual career and academic plans. Key changes include redefining the requirements for career academies to mandate a minimum of two units of secondary education, with at least one unit from a course that meets specific requirements. The bill also updates the collective statewide articulation agreement to ensure seamless transfer of academic credits from various associate degree programs, including career and technical education credits, to baccalaureate programs, while prohibiting uniform restrictions on the number of such credits that can be transferred.

Additionally, the bill establishes a program for funding high school students to attend community college classes during the summer term, regardless of general assembly appropriations, and emphasizes alignment with transfer pathways or career pathways. It also requires that individualized career and academic plans include discussions about opportunities for students to earn college credit and industry-recognized credentials that align with their postsecondary and career interests. These modifications aim to better prepare students for high-demand jobs and facilitate their transition from secondary to postsecondary education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 84A.1B, 84A.12, 261E.8, 262.9, 257.11