WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 438

School attendance: College and Career Access Pathways partnerships.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Christopher Cabaldon

SB 438 allows California students to attend College and Career Access Pathways programs during school hours without being marked absent, expanding work-based learning opportunities.

May 23 hearing: Held in committee and under submission.
#collegeandcareeraccesspathwayspartnerships #schoolattendance
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 438

Legislative bill overview

SB 438 modifies California's school attendance requirements to allow students to participate in College and Career Access Pathways (CCAP) partnerships during school hours without being marked absent. The bill seeks to expand work-based learning opportunities by enabling schools to credit time spent in CCAP programs toward attendance requirements.

Why is this important

CCAP partnerships connect high school students with local employers and community colleges for real-world career exposure and skill development. Removing attendance barriers could increase student participation in these programs, particularly benefiting students who might otherwise choose work over traditional schooling, while also addressing workforce development needs in California.

Potential points of contention

  • Attendance tracking and accountability: Removing traditional absence requirements may complicate school accountability metrics and state funding formulas tied to attendance rates, creating reporting challenges.
  • Equity and access concerns: CCAP opportunities may not be equally available across all school districts, potentially creating disparities where some students can access programs while others cannot.
  • Employer participation burden: Requiring employers to accommodate student schedules and coordinate with schools may discourage participation, particularly from smaller businesses with limited HR infrastructure.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.