For several years, FAANS has lobbied to address the inequity in dual enrollment fees for private school students. The Senate Education Committee has now approved proposed legislation requiring that fees for dual-enrollment classes for students in private schools not be charged to the parents nor to the private school. Books and instructional materials would also be free to students.

The legislation requires state colleges and universities with dual enrollment programs to enter into articulation agreements with any private schools in their areas wishing to participate. Institutions may not limit the number of private students participating and eligibility requirements cannot be more stringent than those required in public schools.

Institutions must provide an “early college program” to public, private and homeschooled students in grades 11 and 12. This is a high school acceleration program that emphasizes required college courses, prerequisites, or industry certifications rather than electives. It gives students the option to complete at least 60 credit hours.

Sales Tax Holiday

Senate Bill 576 calls for a back-to-school sales tax holiday on purchases of clothes, supplies and computers in early August. This is part of a package of tax cuts introduced in the House.

Water filters for schools

The Senate Education Committee approved a bill that would require school districts to add filters to drinking water sources in public schools built before 1986 in order to reduce high lead levels in drinking water. Although this bill addresses public schools, if your building was constructed before 1986 it might be wise to have your water tested.

Read more details on these and other stories at “Pre-K testing, school tax holiday, water filters, storm help for schools and more” by Jim Booth for redefinED.