Bill > S305

This bill aims to promote racially integrated schools in Massachusetts. It has two key provisions: 1. School Segregation Data Collection: The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to annually report on the racial composition of public schools and districts, identifying them as diverse, segregated, or intensely segregated based on specific criteria. This data will also track measures of racial disproportionality within schools and districts. 2. School Integration Grant Program: The bill establishes a grant program for public school districts or consortia to develop and implement comprehensive strategies to combat racial segregation and increase racial diversity in schools. The grants can fund activities like recruiting and training diverse staff, developing transportation plans, creating equitable school assignment policies, and expanding access to rigorous curriculum. Priority will be given to programs that extend beyond a single district or demonstrate coordination with housing/transportation agencies. The goal of this bill is to increase racial integration and diversity in Massachusetts public schools, with the aim of improving academic and developmental outcomes for all students.