This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to clarify the grant application process for the P-TECH program, which supports the establishment of Pathways in Technology Early College High Schools. Key changes include the introduction of an implementation grant application process, which requires schools to submit a written agreement with a higher education institution and a business partner, along with a proposed school design and other operational details. The bill also specifies that P-TECH schools are eligible for grants to support start-up and ongoing program costs, with a maximum grant amount of $500,000 per year starting in fiscal year 2026, and introduces competitive grant awards beginning in fiscal year 2028.

Additionally, the bill removes a previous requirement that the commissioner of education must first approve applications for P-TECH schools enrolling students in the 2020-2021 school year or later. It establishes that grant recipients can provide mentoring and technical assistance to new applicants, with specific grant amounts outlined for start-up and mentoring assistance. The bill also includes provisions for appropriations for P-TECH support grants, ensuring that funds can be utilized over multiple fiscal years and allowing the department to retain a small percentage for grant administration. The effective date of these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 124D.093