(a) For purposes of this section, a âlinked learning programâ is a program that is all of the following: (1) A multiyear, comprehensive high school program of integrated academic and technical study that is organized around a broad theme, interest area, or industry sector, including, but not necessarily limited to, the industry sectors identified in the model standards adopted by the state board pursuant to Section 51226. (2) A program that ensures that all pupils have curriculum choices that will prepare them for career entry and a full range of postsecondary options, including two- and four-year college, apprenticeship, and formal employment training. (3) A program that is comprised, at a minimum, of the following components: (A) An integrated core curriculum that meets the eligibility requirements for admission to the University of California and the California State University and is delivered through project-based learning and other engaging instructional strategies that intentionally bring real-world context and relevance to the curriculum where broad themes, interest areas, and career technical education are emphasized. (B) An integrated technical core of a sequence of at least four related courses, that may reflect career technical education standards-based courses, that provide pupils with career skills, that are aligned to and underscore academic principles, and to the extent possible fulfill the academic core requirements listed in subparagraph (A). (C) A series of work-based learning opportunities that begin with mentoring and job shadowing and evolve into intensive internships, school-based enterprises, or virtual apprenticeships. (D) Support services, including supplemental instruction in reading and mathematics, that help pupils master the advanced academic and technical content that is necessary for success in college and career. (b) The Superintendent, in conjunction with the Office of the Secretary for Education, the California Community Colleges, the University of California, the California State University, the Employment Development Department, both houses of the California Legislature, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, school administrators, representatives of regional occupational centers and programs, community-based organizations, labor organizations, and others deemed appropriate by the Superintendent, shall develop a report that explores the feasibility of establishing and expanding additional linked learning programs in California, including the costs and merits associated with expansion of these programs. Linked learning programs created for high schools may include, but are not limited to, California partnership academies, regional occupational centers and programs, charter schools, academies, small learning communities, and other career-themed small schools. (c) The report described in subdivision (b) shall do all of the following: (1) Identify regulations, policies, and practices that need to be added, deleted, or amended in order to promote the development and expansion of linked learning programs. (2) Set forth a reasonable timeline for the development and expansion of linked learning programs. (3) Include at least all of the following components: (A) Assessment of the current capacity of the department for the purpose of maximizing the development of these programs. (B) Identifying the possible roles and responsibilities of other departments or agencies to assist in developing or expanding linked learning programs. (C) An assessment of the appropriateness of school districts fulfilling the requirements set forth in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 51228 by developing industry-focused linked learning programs, including those described in this section. (D) Methods for developing and sharing models of integrated curriculum and instruction. (E) Strategies for increasing the course options and instructional time for pupils in high school.
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