Bill > H149

This bill establishes a School Financial Flexibility Pilot Program allowing eligible school districts to submit a Financial and Hiring Flexibility Plan (FHFP) to the State Board of Education for more operational autonomy. An eligible district must have the ability to levy special taxes and have at least 5,000 students in the 2023-2024 school year. Under the plan, districts can gain flexibility in using state funds and hiring teachers, with up to 50% of teachers potentially being unlicensed if they complete specific preservice training. The district must set ambitious goals by the 2030-2031 school year, including 100% career development plans for students, 90% teacher retention, improved school growth indexes, and addressing performance gaps among student subgroups. The State Board will review the district's performance every three years and can terminate the FHFP if academic or financial standards are not met. Districts must submit annual reports to the Superintendent detailing teacher hiring, academic progress, fund usage, and program outcomes, and the Superintendent will then report to the General Assembly on the pilot program's effectiveness. The flexibility plan aims to provide innovative approaches to education while maintaining accountability for student performance and fiscal responsibility.

Education, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H149