HB 17-1201

HB 17-1201, also known as the Science Technology Engineering Math Diploma Endorsement bill, allows high schools in Colorado to offer a special STEM endorsement on their diplomas. To earn this endorsement, students must excel in four additional STEM courses beyond regular graduation requirements, score well on specific math tests, and complete a challenging capstone project that demonstrates mastery of key skills. Schools will work with local businesses and universities to set the standards for these projects. Starting from sixth grade, schools are required to inform students and their parents about how to qualify for this endorsement. Since the bill has been signed into law, it is now in effect and high schools can start implementing STEM endorsements for graduating seniors.

Official Summary

The bill authorizes a school district, board of cooperative services, district charter high school, or institute charter high school (local education provider) to grant a high school diploma endorsement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to students who demonstrate mastery in STEM. To obtain the endorsement, a student must complete the high school graduation requirements at a high level of proficiency, successfully complete 4 STEM courses selected by the local education provider in addition to the high school graduation requirements in these subjects, achieve a minimum score specified in the bill on one of several specified mathematics assessments, and successfully complete a final capstone project. To successfully complete the capstone project, the student must achieve a high proficiency level of mastery, as set by the local education provider, for each of the competencies specified in the bill. The local education provider is required to work with STEM-related business and industrial leaders and institutions of higher education in setting the high proficiency levels of mastery. The local education provider must annually notify students and their parents beginning in sixth grade of the requirements for obtaining a STEM diploma endorsement. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

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