Assembly Bill 582 aims to enhance dual enrollment programs in Wisconsin by establishing the Council on Dual Enrollment within the Department of Workforce Development (DWD). The council will consist of various appointed members from educational institutions and organizations, tasked with studying and recommending methods to improve access to dual enrollment opportunities for high school students. The bill also mandates DWD to create a dedicated online portal to provide information about dual enrollment programs, including application processes and available courses, and to produce printed brochures for distribution to students and families.

The bill proposes several changes to existing dual enrollment programs, including the Early College Credit Program (ECCP) and the Start College Now Program (SCNP). Key amendments include extending eligibility to 9th and 10th graders, allowing summer session courses under SCNP, and adjusting notification deadlines for students. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the transferability of postsecondary credits earned through these programs, requiring agreements between the Board of Regents and technical colleges to ensure that core general education credits are transferable and satisfy requirements at receiving institutions. The bill also expands the information dissemination requirements for school boards to include 7th graders and mandates annual updates to the information provided.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36.11(3)(cm)5, 36.11, 36.31(2m)(b), 36.31, 36.31(2m)(c), 36.65(3), 36.65, 38.12(14)(a)1, 38.12, 38.12(14)(a)3, 38.12(14)(c), 38.12(14)(d)