HB478 This testimony is in favor of the enactment of a Fine Arts Seal of Excellence on high school diplomas. In considering the Fine Arts Seal of Excellence on a diploma, a lot is to be considered. Guidelines and criteria should reflect the dedication students have given to the Fine Arts Program of their school district to receive such an honor. This honor would be not only an encouragement to the dedication and participation of the programs that really compliment the educational experience students receive academically, This recognition would not only serve to encourage the students participating and dedicating themselves, but also be a lighthouse to beacon prospective students to participate in such programs. We have long known the value of such programs to improve academic improvement, aid in responsibility through punctuality and taking ownership of being a part of team effort. These skills are valuable and carry young people into adulthood and through the rest of their lives. To recognize their significant dedication to such programs for most of their formidable high school years will I believe shape stronger intellect and success in our future graduates. Please deeply consider the positive impact this will have on future graduates when approving this measure. Respectfully, Mrs. O’Neill

Affordability? Who is paying for all this? This is setting up fraud, waste, and abuse, on the Somali/Minn. level.

Dear Members of the Virginia General Assembly, My name is Jolisa Rhoyal, and I am writing in strong support of HB 2454. I offer this comment not only as a concerned citizen, but as a public school employee who has served within Virginia’s education system for more than ten years. Through my firsthand experience working with students at both the middle school and high school levels, I have consistently observed a major gap between academic instruction and real-life preparedness. Many students, even as they approach graduation, have little understanding of what life will look like after school whether that includes entering the workforce, pursuing higher education, or navigating adulthood responsibly. HB 2454 is a meaningful step in the right direction because it recognizes the value of work-based learning, apprenticeships, internships, and externships. These opportunities expose students to real-world environments, teach responsibility, and help them identify career interests early. I strongly believe these programs should not be optional or secondary, but instead taught and encouraged at a much higher demand across our schools. In addition to work-based learning, I urge the General Assembly to continue expanding and prioritizing instruction in financial literacy and real-life skills. Students should graduate with a working knowledge of: • Budgeting and saving • Money management • Investing and building generational wealth • Maintaining a healthy credit score • Avoiding and managing debt These are essential life skills that directly impact long-term stability, independence, and economic success. When students understand finances and career pathways early, they are better positioned to make informed decisions and avoid cycles of financial hardship. As someone who sees the needs of our students daily, I believe HB 2454 has the potential to positively shape their futures. I respectfully encourage your continued support of this bill and future efforts that prepare students not just academically, but practically, for life beyond the classroom. Thank you for your time, service, and commitment to Virginia’s children. Respectfully, Jolisa Rhoyal