Bill > S289

This bill, known as the "Dropout Prevention and Re-engagement Act," aims to improve dropout prevention and student re-engagement in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Requiring all children under 18 to attend school if they have not graduated from high school, with a one-year phase-in period. 2. Mandating the use of the Early Warning Indicator Index System, or a similar data tracking system, to identify and support students at risk of not graduating on time, with guidance and support from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). 3. Requiring schools to conduct annual workshops for parents and teachers on effective strategies for involving parents in the education of their children, especially at-risk students. 4. Establishing the "Massachusetts Success Coach Initiative" to provide support and intervention services for at-risk students in grades 7-12 at schools with high dropout rates or high incidences of at-risk students. 5. Authorizing the DESE to study the impact of an employer-sponsored pilot program that provides paid leave for employees to participate in their children's academic activities. The bill also includes provisions related to student handbooks and criminal liability for school attendance, as well as effective dates for the various sections.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S289