An Alabama state representative has introduced a bill that would allow homeschool students to join career and technical education CTE programs at traditional schools.
The bill, called HB 61, was filed by Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover. It would also allow expenses for these programs to be covered by the CHOOSE Act.
DuBose explained that the idea for the bill came from a local parent whose son wanted to learn a trade. However, the local program didn’t allow homeschool students to join. After looking into it, DuBose found that individual schools could allow homeschoolers, but districts weren’t required to offer such programs.
In recent years, Alabama has focused on improving career and technical education because of the state’s low workforce participation rates.
DuBose said that education groups she worked with wanted schools to set their own rules for these programs. She added that everyone seems to agree that this bill could be a good opportunity for students.
Sally Smith, executive director of the Alabama Association of School Boards, said the group supported the bill. She believes it will help Alabama’s economic goals by allowing homeschool students to participate in CTE programs if there’s extra space. This would also help improve the state’s workforce.
Smith also sees it as a great chance for people who have chosen not to attend public school to explore the opportunities available in public education.
Homeschool students may be required to pay fees for things like materials. DuBose said the bill would let schools receive funding for homeschool students enrolled in these programs, as they would be counted in the average daily attendance.
For programs with limited spots, students who are enrolled full-time in the traditional public school will get priority. DuBose said schools are committed to serving their full-time students first, but they should try to make room for homeschool students if possible.