CareerTech files rulemaking notices on out-of-district tuition formula and industry-specialist pathway

Gina Hubbard briefed the board on edits to previously filed Notices of Rulemaking Intent. The first edit (chapter 15) would give the department flexibility to set a statewide average formula for out-of-district tuition for secondary students so the agency can produce a single, consistent rate rather than have districts calculate different amounts. Hubbard said the change mirrors workforce and technology-center formulas and does not bind the department to a fixed calculation method; the rulemaking process and public comment will follow statutory requirements.

The second edit (chapter 20) adds a pathway for program teaching assistants who are heavily engaged in instruction to pursue industry-specialist certification toward becoming full-time instructors; the department will define criteria and require technology-center administrator sign-off.

Hubbard said notices will be published in the Oklahoma Register on Dec. 1 and open for public comment (typical comment windows apply). No board action was required at today’s meeting; staff emphasized the field requested these changes and that the rules will proceed through standard public-notice and comment periods.