The proposed bill aims to establish the Great Expectations Pilot Program within West Virginia's community and technical college system to support foster children transitioning to higher education. The legislation outlines the need for such a program, citing the challenges faced by nearly 2,000 foster children in the state who are nearing the age of transition. It draws inspiration from a similar initiative in Virginia, which employs specialized coaches to assist students in navigating college life and accessing necessary resources. The bill emphasizes the importance of tailored support for these vulnerable individuals, highlighting the gap in existing services that do not adequately address their unique needs.

The bill details the structure and funding of the pilot program, which will be implemented at a selected institution starting September 1, 2025, for a duration of three years. It allocates $95,000 annually from the state's general revenue fund to cover the salary and benefits of a dedicated coach, as well as resources for recruitment and support activities. The responsibilities of the coach include helping foster children assess their skills, plan for college enrollment, and secure financial aid. After the pilot period, the program's effectiveness will be evaluated to determine its potential for broader implementation across other community and technical colleges in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-3G-1, 18B-3G-2, 18B-3G-3, 18B-3G-4