SCH CD-POSTSECONDARY MENTOR
The bill outlines specific services that postsecondary mentors can offer, such as connecting students to college fairs, assisting with application processes, providing information about career options, and helping with financial aid resources. By allowing school personnel to engage in mentoring activities, HB3848 seeks to create a bridge between high school education and postsecondary success. This may lead to improved enrollment rates in colleges and vocational programs, as students will have better access to resources and assistance tailored to their needs.
House Bill 3848, introduced by Rep. Cyril Nichols, amends the School Code to establish a voluntary postsecondary mentoring program within school districts. This program permits school personnel, including athletic coaches, counselors, and administrative staff, to provide guidance to high school students regarding postsecondary academic and vocational opportunities. The aim of this bill is to enhance the support available to students as they navigate their educational and career paths after high school, thereby promoting better outcomes in higher education and vocational training.
Participation in the program is strictly voluntary, meaning that school personnel may choose to partake without any obligation. For those who do participate, the bill allows for compensation and the possibility of receiving a certificate that validates their ability to provide mentoring services. This certification mechanism may serve to professionalize the role of mentors in the education system, although concerns may arise about the effectiveness of the program and whether it meets the diverse needs of students across different school districts.