A. The Virginia Community College System is authorized to conduct detailed planning for an Advanced Regional Technology and Workforce Academy in the City of Norfolk, in partnership with the City of Norfolk, Norfolk Public Schools, and other private or nonprofit entities. The Academy will provide space for the delivery of adult and youth workforce and educational services by Tidewater Community College in collaboration with Norfolk Public Schools and other local school divisions. The space will be owned, controlled, and operated by the State Board for Community Colleges. The planning for this project shall assume a 50 percent match for construction funding to be provided by the City of Norfolk, Norfolk Public Schools, and other non-state entities.

B.1. Prior to the completion of detailed planning, the Virginia Community College System shall submit a proposed governance structure for the Academy to the Secretary of Education, the Secretary of Finance, and Chief Workforce Development Advisor for approval. The proposed governance structure shall be developed with input from each participating school division, the local business community, parent and student representatives, and Tidewater Community College.

2. Prior to the completion of detailed planning, the Department of Education, in consultation with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the Chief Workforce Development Advisor, shall approve a curriculum blueprint that identifies program offerings supported by labor market information and employer demand. These programs should include rigorous academics organized in career pathways, career focused transdisciplinary course sequences, opportunities to earn college credits and industry –recognized credentials, and business engagement strategies around work-based learning opportunities and co-design of curriculum.

3. Prior to the completion of detailed planning, the Virginia Community College System shall sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the school board of each participating local jurisdiction, which states fiscal responsibilities over operations and maintenance, liability, security, faculty and staff payroll, equipment, technology, infrastructure and student supports.

C. Prior to consideration of construction funding for this project, the Secretary of Finance shall certify that the non-state funding required for a 50 percent match has been made available.