RD831 - Update on the Progress of HB1477 (Chapter 421, 2024 Acts of Assembly) – November 1, 2024


Executive Summary:

Report on the progress of the Board of Education in updating its Guidelines for Graduation Requirements: Local Alternative Paths to Standard Units of Credit (Alternatives to the 140-Clock-Hour Requirement) to include guidance regarding (i) waiver pathway options to allow students time within the school day to complete work-based learning opportunities such as internships, externships, youth registered apprenticeships, clinical experiences, service learning, and other career and workforce development opportunities; (ii) advanced learning opportunities focused on problem-solving, critical thinking, creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and citizenship skills; (iii) content that provides technical knowledge, skills, and competency-based applied learning; (iv) a method for approving alternative programs, including dual enrollment courses, for which course credit may be granted for the purpose of satisfying high school graduation requirements to any student who completes such course and masters the course content by demonstrating the competencies required by course standards, regardless of time, place, or pace; (v) other instructional time models adopted to meet instructional hour requirements through a variety of learning modalities such as project-based learning, mastery-based learning, weekend courses, and evening courses to allow a student to use flexible time options to accelerate demonstration of mastery; and (vi) offering instructional and learning opportunities including innovative, advanced, and enrichment programs for the full school year.