Prince William Promise? What is your reaction?

[GREGORY]

HD 21, what do you think of this?

https://www.kalamazoopromise.com/

Sample Legislation Outline

Title: An Act to Establish the Virginia Promise Scholarship Program

Section 1: Purpose

To provide tuition-free access to higher education for graduates of public schools within designated Promise Zones.

To promote educational attainment, economic development, and community revitalization.

Section 2: Definitions

Promise Zone: A designated geographic area within the state where the Promise Scholarship Program will be implemented.

Eligible Student: A student who has attended public schools within a Promise Zone for a specified number of years and graduates from a public high school within the Promise Zone.

Participating Institutions: Public colleges, universities, and approved private institutions within the state that accept Promise Scholarships.

Section 3: Establishment of Promise Zones

Promise Zones shall be designated by local governments, school districts, and community organizations based on criteria such as economic need, population size, and community support.

Local governments, school districts, and community organizations may apply for Promise Zone designation.

Section 4: Funding and Administration

The program shall be funded entirely through private donations, corporate sponsorships, and local contributions.

A Promise Scholarship Fund shall be established and managed by a designated nonprofit organization or community foundation.

The nonprofit organization or community foundation shall be responsible for the administration and distribution of scholarship funds.

Section 5: Eligibility and Scholarship Awards

To be eligible, students must have attended public schools within a Promise Zone for at least four years and graduate from a public high school within the Promise Zone.

Scholarships shall cover up to 100% of tuition and mandatory fees at participating institutions.

The amount of the scholarship shall be based on the length of time the student has attended public schools within the Promise Zone.

Section 6: Reporting and Accountability

The designated nonprofit organization or community foundation shall submit annual reports to local stakeholders on the program's outcomes, including student enrollment, graduation rates, and economic impact.

The program shall be subject to regular audits by an independent auditor to ensure proper use of funds and compliance with program guidelines.

Section 7: Sunset Clause

The legislation shall include a sunset clause specifying an expiration date for the program unless renewed by local stakeholders and donors.

By removing state involvement and focusing on local management and private funding, this version of the legislation empowers communities to take charge of their own educational and economic development initiatives.