The following words used in this article have the following meanings.
- (1) ELIGIBLE STUDENT. An Alabama resident who is registered for or intends to register to take a short-term credential program at an institution within the Alabama Community College System.
- (2) GRANT. A payment made to an institution within the Alabama Community College System to be applied toward an eligible student’s qualifying educational expenses for a short-term credential program.
- (3) QUALIFYING EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES. Tuition, fees, books, materials, and supplies required for or on behalf of an eligible student by the Alabama Community College System institution for participation in a short-term credential program.
- (4) SHORT-TERM CREDENTIAL PROGRAM. A program at an Alabama Community College System institution that can be completed in two semesters or less and that will lead to in-demand career opportunities in the region in which the community college where the course is taken is located. In developing the short-term credential program, each community college shall work with local businesses and regional workforce councils and consult the regional and statewide lists of in-demand occupations to determine the in-demand careers and applicable curriculum.
(Act 2023-539, §9.)