HB 1281 - DIGEST

Creates the educational mentor grant program to increase graduation rates for high school students from underrepresented populations.

Requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to: (1) Select two community-based organizations that meet certain requirements; and

(2) Distribute a three-year grant to the selected community-based organizations.

Requires the selected organization to: (1) Have demonstrated success in offering a research-based mentorship program that increases graduation rates for underrepresented populations;

(2) Demonstrate capacity to expand the program;

(3) Match the students with committed, caring adults from the students' communities;

(4) Screen and train adults before matching them; and

(5) Introduce students to a variety of postsecondary school options and ensure that they have a posthigh school plan for economic stability.