Section 255.100  Definitions

"Registered Apprenticeship Program" or "Program" means an industry-based occupational training program of study registered by the U.S. Department of Labor, after standards review, that meets each of the following characteristics:

Apprentices in the program are at all times employed by a company participating in the program.

The program features a structured combination of on-the-job learning supported by related technical classroom instruction, delivered either by a high school or a public community college.

The:

apprentices in the program are paid a training wage, of not less than the State minimum wage, that escalates throughout the life of the apprenticeship; and

employment continued with the company following conclusion of the apprenticeship for a period of not less than 2 years.

Apprentices in the program earn an industry-related occupational skills certificate and a high school diploma.

Apprentices in the program may earn postsecondary credit toward a certificate or degree, as applicable.

"Registered Apprenticeship Program" does not include an apprenticeship program related to construction, as defined under the Employee Classification Act [820 ILCS 185].  (Section 2-3.175 of the Code)

"School Code" or "Code" means 105 ILCS 5.

"State Board" means the State Board of Education.