Pupil instruction: Cambridge International Education programs.

Senator Ochoa Bogh's legislation expands California's educational framework to formally incorporate Cambridge International Education programs, adding these internationally recognized assessments to the tools used for evaluating school principals and student academic growth.

The bill modifies educational counseling requirements to include Cambridge International programs alongside existing Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate offerings. School districts that offer Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), AS, or A level courses may provide financial assistance for examination fees to students demonstrating economic need.

A new chapter in the Education Code establishes the legislative foundation for Cambridge International Education programs in California schools. The Cambridge Pathway combines curriculum, teaching, and assessment methods developed by Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Students pursuing the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) diploma must pass seven examinations across four curricular areas. The bill notes that successful completion of Cambridge programs typically results in advanced placement credit at colleges and universities.

The legislation requires no new state appropriations, instead authorizing districts to use existing funds to support Cambridge program implementation and examination fee assistance. School districts offering these programs must integrate the assessments into principal evaluations and ensure counseling services include guidance on Cambridge opportunities.