May. 05, 2015
HARRISBURG –Taking a major step toward improving a valuable academic support program, the House of Representatives today unanimously approved legislation, authored by Rep. Jim Christiana (R-Beaver/Washington), to ensure low-income students are connected with the educational resources necessary to land family-sustaining jobs.
House Bill 934 would redesign the Keystone Education Yields Success (KEYS) Program to support students wishing to graduate with associate’s degree and/or certifications for a high demand occupation from Pennsylvania community colleges, state universities, or career and technical schools.
The KEYS program is an academic support program assisting low-income individuals who are seeking additional training or certification to improve their job prospects. KEYS does not pay tuition, but provides career mentoring, tutoring and academic support to students, as well as facilitates additional supportive services. Students must enroll in a program that leads to one of the state’s High Priority Occupations (HPO), such as a dental hygienist, registered nurse, physical therapy assistant, paralegal, and other family-sustaining employment opportunities.
“After speaking directly with community college leaders in my district and across Pennsylvania, it’s clear the support networks provided by KEYS are an invaluable resource for students who are attempting to break out of poverty and enter into self-sustaining lifestyles,” Christiana said.
Under current law, students can only take full advantage of the KEYS program for 12 months, which has led to a large amount of dropouts in the program.
“The current provisions in the KEYS program are a prime example of the state spending tax dollars to support well-intended efforts that fail to maximize potential,” Christiana said. “By extending the program to 24 months, KEYS students will be able to receive vital academic support through the full two years necessary to earn a competitive degree in a good paying field.”
House Bill 934 is the first of several bills to the pass the House in response to the Empowering Opportunities: Gateways Out of Poverty policy initiative led by then House Majority Policy Committee Chairman, now House Majority Leader, Dave Reed (R-Indiana). It now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Jim Christiana
15th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
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