This bill, S.F. No. 2139, relates to education finance and authorizes school districts in Minnesota to offer career and technical education (CTE) postsecondary scholarships and grants to students. The bill includes the following provisions:

1. Authorization for School Boards:

   • School boards may use school funds to provide scholarships and grants to eligible students pursuing postsecondary education in career and technical fields.

2. Reporting Requirements:

   • School districts and cooperative centers must report data on all career and technical education programs to the Department of Education.
     
   • If a district or cooperative offers these scholarships or grants, they must report associated revenue and expenditures.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Students:

   • Students must:
     1. Apply during their senior year in the form specified by the school board.
        
     2. Successfully complete the career and technical education course that generated the scholarship or grant funds.
        
     3. Graduate from a Minnesota high school.

4. Funding and Use of Scholarships/Grants:

   • Districts or cooperative units can set aside some or all net proceeds from CTE programs when revenues exceed program costs.
     
   • The Department of Education may provide guidelines to determine these net proceeds.
     
   • The amount of an individual student’s scholarship/grant must not exceed the available net proceeds.
     
   • Funds may be used for:
     • Tuition and expenses at a postsecondary institution.
       
     • Certificate programs and registered apprenticeships.
       
     • Supplies for students entering the workforce or military in their chosen career pathway.
       

Summary:

This bill allows Minnesota school districts to create postsecondary scholarships and grants for students pursuing career and technical education, funded by revenue from these programs. It sets eligibility criteria, reporting requirements, and guidelines for using these funds to support students' education, training, and career-related expenses after high school.