This bill (S.F. No. 2139) amends Minnesota education finance laws to allow school districts and cooperative education centers to offer postsecondary scholarships and grants to students enrolled in career and technical education (CTE) programs.

Key Provisions:

1. Authorization of Expenditures:

   • School boards may allocate school funds for postsecondary scholarships and grants for CTE students.

2. District Reporting Requirements:

   • School districts and cooperative centers must report financial data related to these scholarships and grants to the Minnesota Department of Education.

3. Eligibility for Scholarships and Grants:

   • To qualify, a student must:
     1. Apply during their senior year in high school.
     2. Successfully complete a CTE program that generates revenue.
     3. Graduate from a Minnesota high school.

4. Funding and Award Amounts:

   • School districts or cooperative units may set aside net proceeds from CTE programs (where revenue exceeds program costs) to fund scholarships and grants.
   • The Minnesota Department of Education may provide guidelines on calculating net proceeds.
   • Each scholarship or grant amount cannot exceed the yearly net proceeds from the CTE program.

5. Use of Funds:

   • Scholarships or grants can be used for:
     • Tuition and expenses at a postsecondary institution.
     • Costs of a certificate program.
     • Enrollment costs for a registered apprenticeship.
     • Supplies for students entering the workforce or military training.

Purpose:

The bill seeks to support students pursuing career and technical education by providing financial assistance for further education, workforce training, or apprenticeships.