To create the Students' Right to Know Act of 2023; to require the Alabama Commission on Higher Education to collect data and create an interactive online tool for students for use in making informed decisions relating to education and professions; and to require the commission and Workforce Development Division of the Department of Commerce to share data and information as necessary to comply with this act.
Impact
The enactment of SB176 is set to significantly influence state education laws by establishing requirements for the Alabama Commission on Higher Education to collect comprehensive data on educational programs and job market trends. This will not only facilitate a better understanding of the job market for students but also hold educational institutions accountable for their performance in preparing students for the workforce. Additionally, the regular publication of the Student Graduate Horizon Scorecard will provide high school students with vital insights into post-graduation outcomes, thereby promoting informed decision-making.
Summary
SB176, known as the Students' Right to Know Act of 2023, aims to enhance transparency in higher education and assist students in making informed choices regarding their educational and career paths. The bill mandates the Alabama Commission on Higher Education to gather and provide critical data, including the most in-demand jobs, average college costs, student loan statistics, and salary expectations following graduation. By creating an interactive online tool, known as the Student Horizon Database, students will have access to a wealth of information that can aid in their decision-making processes related to education and professions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB176 appears to be predominantly positive, with strong support from various stakeholders who believe that increased access to pertinent information can empower students and streamline their transition from education to employment. Proponents argue that this initiative is essential for reducing the student debt crisis by aligning educational choices with job availability and earning potential. However, there are also nuances, particularly regarding the responsibility and authenticity of the data collected by the state and its implications for educational institutions.
Contention
While SB176 is largely supported, potential points of contention include concerns over data accuracy and the effectiveness of the commission in gathering and presenting information that truly reflects the job market needs. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the extent of mandates placed on colleges and universities to comply with the data collection processes. Furthermore, critics may argue about the implications of increasing regulatory oversight in educational frameworks and whether it hampers institutional autonomy in curricular decisions.
Public K-12 education and two-year institutions of higher education, Alabama Career RoadMap Act, Alabama Community College System required to develop career readiness module to be added to high school graduation requirements, each public high school student required to complete Career RoadMap Postsecondary Opportunity as defined by Alabama Community College System, Alabama Community College System and State Board of Education required to adopt rules
Restoring Educational Advancement of Completing High School (REACH) Act, providing for a nontraditional high school diploma option for students 17 years of age and older who withdraw from school through the Adult Education Division of the Alabama Community College System; to provide for the sharing of data on students who drop out of high school; and to provide that participating students are eligible for driver's licenses
Public institutions of higher education, Hunger-Free Campus designation created and provided for, Alabama Commission on Higher Education required to adopt rules
Spouses and Dependents of Law Enforcement Officers Tuition Scholarship Fund created, Alabama Commission on Higher Education required to administer and adopt rules
Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP), renamed the Loan Assistance in Support of Educators in Alabama (LASEA) Program; providing loan assistance in acute educator shortage programs as determined by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education in consultation with the State Department of Education
Alabama Commission on Higher Education; authorized to award loan assistance to athletic trainers under Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program
Alabama Commission on Higher Education; authorized to award loan assistance to athletic trainers under Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program
Public Education, to require the State Department of Education for public K-12 schools, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education for public four-year institutions of higher education, and the Board of Trustees of the Alabama Community College System for public two-year institutions of higher education to summarize and report break/fix rates on school technology devices to Legislature
Alabama Commission on Higher Education and ReEngage Alabama Grant Program, minimum age of an adult learner decreased from 25 to 22; definition of eligible student expanded