HB4354 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

SCH CD-CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAM
Last Action

3/27/2026 - House: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance

Synopsis As Introduced

Amends the School Code. Requires the State Board of Education to establish and administer a program to strengthen this State's workforce by creating structured pipelines from public high schools into in-demand careers through public-private partnerships with employers, public community colleges, and school districts. Under the program, provides that the school board of each school district maintaining a high school shall allow the high school to partner with local employers and the community college district where the high school is located to establish a pathway program for careers in priority sectors. Requires the State Board and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to jointly approve the pathway program prior to implementation and maintain a registry of participating high schools and employers. Sets forth pathway program requirements. Provides that an employer participating in a pathway program that provides a qualifying paid internship or apprenticeship pathway shall receive from the State Board a $1,000 grant per student holding the internship or apprenticeship, not exceed $50,000 per year. Provides that at least 25% of any funds appropriated for implementation must be used to support pathway programs in high schools in high-poverty or rural school districts.
Actions

DateChamberAction
1/08/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Dave Vella
1/14/2026HouseFirst Reading
1/14/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
2/17/2026HouseAssigned to Appropriations-Elementary & Secondary Education Committee
3/27/2026HouseRule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
4/14/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Camille Y. Lilly
4/20/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Nicolle Grasse