The South Dakota House Education Committee has passed a resolution to study alternative paths for teens to obtain the equivalent of a high school diploma.
House Concurrent Resolution 6001 would set up a task force to look at new ways to engage youth who do not respond to going to high school or obtaining a GED. Supporters of the resolution say this could lead to a positive alternative to formal education, serving the student population currently slipping through the cracks.
The measure comes from the interim Study Committee on Juvenile Justice. Rep. Fred Deutsch, R-Florence, was on that committee. He said the measure could also help with the state's worker shortage.
“The intention of this resolution is to provide more South Dakota youth the opportunity to become productive adults who can contribute to their families, work, and communities," Deutsch said.
The measure passed the committee on a 15 to 0 vote Wednesday.
The resolution now moves on to the House of Representatives.
