JEFFERSON CITY — Today (7-24), the framework creating Missouri innovation education campuses, sponsored by Sen. Will Kraus, R-Lee’s Summit, in Senate Bill 381was hailed by the president of the United States as a forward-thinking tool for today’s students on the campus of the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. In attendance at the president’s speech, Sen. Kraus was especially proud of the prospects this legislation will open for Missouri’s students.
“Setting this course for the future of education is certainly a highlight of the 2013 legislative session,” said Sen. Kraus. “Our students deserve the best opportunities we can provide for them, and Missouri businesses deserve the best trained employees. As we move forward, Missouri will start setting standards for innovative education programs across our country.”
SB 381 puts into state statute an idea already tested in Lee’s Summit, where a four-year university (UCM), a two-year institution (Metropolitan Community Colleges) and a local school district (Lee’s Summit R-7 School District) combine with local businesses to create a six-year program, which includes real-world internships. High school students who join the program can potentially obtain a two-year college degree upon graduation and, two years later, can graduate college with a both bachelor’s degree and on-the-job experience that can offer an inside opportunity at a career.
“This legislation affects two separate problems facing students across the county these days,” Sen. Kraus. “First is the continually rising cost of attending class. Too many young adults are collecting heavy education debt before reaching graduation. Second is the challenge of finding and landing a job following graduation.”
Sen. Kraus continued, “It was a pleasure to lead the team that took this bill to the legislative finish line. I am honored and thankful that the president chose to highlight this program in his economic address.”
To read more about SB 381 or other measures sponsored by Sen. Kraus, visit www.senate.mo.gov/kraus.
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