Bill > H4681

This bill aims to enhance transparency and data reporting related to special education in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: 1) Requiring the Data Advisory Commission to study and make recommendations on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's (DESE) ability to publicly report student-specific special education data, including the number of students receiving various services cross-tabulated by demographic factors. 2) Mandating DESE to publish this data starting from the 2027-2028 school year, while also reporting any data they cannot publicly disclose. 3) Requiring DESE to annually publish a supplemental report containing student achievement data for approved private special education schools and programs. 4) Expanding the data DESE must collect and report on, such as the number of students by disability category receiving specific special education services. 5) Requiring private special education schools/programs to file annual financial and programmatic reports with DESE, improving oversight and transparency. 6) Directing the Secretary of Education to study and make recommendations on the oversight of private special education schools and programs. The overall goal is to enhance transparency, data collection, and oversight of special education services in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance

Committee on Education (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H4681