Requires that academic credit toward a high school diploma be given for practical experience gained outside of school during high school

BILL NUMBER:S2471

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to providing academic credit toward a high school diploma for practical experience

Purpose

To allow high school students interested in gaining outside work experience the opportunity to do so while earning credit towards graduation

Summary of provisions

Section 1 of the bill amends sections 305 of the education law by adding a new subdivision 53 that provides for the commissioner to create rules for earning academic credit for practical experience toward all types of high school diplomas. These credits shall include internships and other learning experiences that occur outside of school that relate to experience and knowledge in an academic discipline or trade.

Justification

In the current job market, employers want experienced applicants. However, many high school graduates are not provided or given credit for any type of training or hands-on experience during their primary education. Currently, New York State high schools have a focus on college readiness, but students who are interested in other career paths are not always given an opportunity or incentive to acquire practical experience. This legislation will compliment the current job market by allowing high school students to earn credits for meaningful work experience in hopes of better preparing them to enter the workforce.

Fiscal implications

Undetermined

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first September next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law.