Education (Career & Technical Education)

SB 614 would replace Michigan's current high school graduation requirement for 2-3 credits in a language other than English (Section 1278a(2)) with a "life skills" requirement. The bill allows students to fulfill this credit through foreign language, fine arts, or career/technical education programs approved by the state. This change directly affects all Michigan high school students seeking diplomas, as it modifies a core graduation standard under the Revised School Code. The bill amends Sections 1278a, 1278b, and 1531f of the 1976 School Code (MCL 380.1278a et seq.).

SB 350 would allow Michigan public school students to opt out of the workforce readiness assessment portion of the Michigan Merit Examination. Currently required for high school graduation, this section tests job skills and career readiness; the bill would give students the choice to skip it without academic penalty. The change directly affects students in Michigan public schools who take the exam, which is mandatory for graduation. The bill amends state law (MCL 388.1704b) to create this opt-out option, focusing on student choice in a specific assessment component.