New Hampshire Senate Passes SB 276-FN, “Career Readiness Drive to 65”

March 7, 2019

Contact Name: Sara Persechino

Phone: (603) 271-3479

Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us

CONCORD—Today, the New Hampshire Senate passed SB 276-FN, 24-0. This legislation builds on the 65 by 25 goal to have 65% of New Hampshire’s workforce possessing a post-secondary credential by 2025, a mission embraced by the Community College System of New Hampshire, NH Coalition for Business and Education, and the NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs. “Career Readiness Drive to 65” is a systematic and holistic approach through high school years, whereby a career aspiration assessment occurs in 9th grade that facilitates course mapping towards a student’s career ready credential awarded upon high school graduation. The program would extend concurrent enrollment opportunities to 10ththrough 12th grade students.

Senator Kahn (D-Keene), prime sponsor of SB 276-FN, released the following statement after the vote:

“In this changing economy we cannot afford for anyone to get left behind. The passage of SB 276 is another piece of the puzzle to ensure New Hampshire high school graduates have the career readiness credentials they need to accelerate entry into the workforce, as well as college completion, and the tools they need to build a good life. Drive to 65 helps students and it helps businesses find qualified employees by reducing training time and costs and reducing attrition rates.”