The codification of a program helping students further their post-secondary education took a first step on Wednesday (1/24).

 

On a unanimous vote, members of the House Education committee passed House Bill 1099, which revises certain provisions regarding dual education credit.

 

The bill would put into law the dual credit program that allows students in grades 9-12 to take general education college courses as high school credit with students in the 11-12 grades earning college credit through the program.

 

“It gives opportunity to students,” Governor’s Policy Advisor Patrick Weber said of the program, adding that the program has more than doubled in size from 2014-15 to 2016-17.

 

Students enrolling in dual credit courses receive a reduced tuition rate for the courses and only have to cover, at most, one-third of the cost of the course. The school district can choose to pick up the student’s share of the dual credit cost with the state picking up two-thirds of the cost.

 

Weber noted the Governor’s views picking up the additional course costs as “a good problem to have.”

 

Board of Regents System Vice President for Academic Affairs Paul Turman testified that 55 percent of students taking dual credit courses earn an A grade and the courses save students $707 per course. He called the program “extremely worthwhile.”

 

ASBSD is monitoring the bill, which now heads to the House floor for review.

 

For updates on HB 1099 and the latest from legislative session, check the ASBSD Blog, Twitter feed and Bill Tracker page.