HB 304

Allows the Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education to have a school in the Iredell-Statesville School Administrative Unit that operates as a Trades High School (School), serving students in grades 10-12, operating under GS Chapter 115C, that focuses on Career and Technical Education. Exempts the School from Part 1 (courses of study) and Part 1D (high school graduation) of Article 8 of GS Chapter 115C. Sets out requirements for the employment of teachers and administrators, including requiring that at least 50% of the teachers hold teacher licenses. Requires the Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education to develop criteria for an alternative Trades Diploma, as described, which requires students to obtain at least 22 credits. Requires the Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education to submit a list of requirements for obtaining a diploma to the State Board of Education before the start of the first school year in which they intend to offer the Trade Diplomas. Applies beginning with the 2025-26 school year.