Gov. Ivey signs REACH ACT into law, expanding high school diploma program

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Gov. Kay Ivey signed the REACH Act into law on Monday, June 9, expanding the High School Diploma Options program.

The new law gives former Alabama high school students who did not complete their high school education an opportunity to receive their original diploma from the high school they once attended, no matter how many years have passed.

“Anyone willing to do what’s necessary to better their situation shouldn’t be held back by an unfortunate event or decision made during their teenage years,” said Jimmy Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College Systems. “One of the best parts of Alabama’s community colleges is that we meet our students where they are.”

The bill, drafted by state Rep. Matt Woods, lowers the age of eligibility for the program from 18 to 19 years of age.

It requires the State Department of Education to share information about students who have dropped out with ACCS. It also requires that students be informed about non-traditional high school diplomas and other adult education programs while undergoing exit interviews as part of the drop out process.

“We all know that dropping out of high school is truly a fork-in-the-road moment. For many, it was the moment that their prospects took a turn for the worse. Dropping out increases the likelihood of poverty, criminality, and lifelong instability and should not be a life-ending decision,” said Woods. “The best route to success will always include a high school diploma.”

More than 300 students earned their high school diploma through the HDSO program between January 1 and Dec. 1, 2024.

“I always promised myself that if I ever got the chance, I would go back and earn my high school diploma—and I finally did,” said Alison Davenport, one of those former students. “The HSDO Program has given me the opportunity to fulfill my dreams. Knowing that when I attend alumni weekend and football games, I can proudly say that I am an official alumna of George Washington Carver Senior High School—it means everything to me.”

More information about the program can be found here.

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