Holden’s Bill to Increase Educational Opportunities for High School Students Passes Key Committee

Assemblymember Chris Holden’s (D-Pasadena) bill to expand pathways for high school students who want to pursue college courses or career tech classes, was unanimously approved in Assembly Higher Education Committee today.

AB 1451 Concurrent Enrollment would expand and encourage opportunities for high school students who are capable of advanced scholastic or vocational work to enroll in community college courses. It would also encourage students who need additional help passing the California High School Exit Exam and students who traditionally do not attend college, but would like to see if it’s the right path for them.

“This bill would give high school students a head start on their college careers and ease the transition from high school to college,” explained Assemblymember Holden. “Numerous studies have shown that concurrent enrollment increases college success by providing rigorous academic opportunities, exposing high school students to the college experience and expanding job training programs that prepare students for vocational careers.”

AB 1451 would modify the restrictions on enrolling high school students in community college courses by creating formal partnerships between community college districts and high schools in its area. The bill also prohibits “double-dipping” where both the high school and the college were reimbursed for the student.