The bill seeks to improve the high school and beyond planning process in Washington State by creating a universal online platform accessible to students, parents, and educators. This initiative aims to address disparities in how school districts implement these plans, allowing students to tailor and update their educational and career goals. Key amendments include requiring students to start developing their plans by the eighth grade, with annual updates reflecting their academic progress and evolving aspirations. The bill also emphasizes parental involvement and mandates that information be provided in a language that families understand. Additionally, it repeals outdated graduation requirements, such as the culminating project, while allowing districts to set local requirements that better serve their student populations.

The legislation further mandates that school districts align high school and beyond plans with students' career and postsecondary education goals, incorporating elements like career objectives, academic plans, financial aid information, and activity logs by the end of 12th grade. It encourages partnerships with community organizations to enhance career exploration and preparation. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction is tasked with overseeing the development of the online platform, ensuring it complies with privacy regulations and facilitates connections with potential employers. The bill also includes provisions for financial aid advising and outlines conditions for granting emergency waivers from graduation requirements, ensuring students can still graduate despite challenges. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable and supportive framework for students as they prepare for their futures.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270
Substitute Bill: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270
Second Substitute: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270
Engrossed Second Substitute: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270
Session Law: 28A.230.090, 28A.230.215, 28A.230.091, 28A.230.310, 28A.230.320, 28A.300.900, 28A.600.300, 28A.655.270