Bill > HB1278

This bill introduces comprehensive modifications to Colorado's statewide education accountability system, focusing on improving educational performance, transparency, and support for schools and districts. The legislation stems from a task force that examined challenges in the state's existing accountability framework and developed 30 consensus recommendations. Key provisions include creating a new "Pathway Plan" for schools and districts on performance watch, which requires detailed improvement strategies, budget allocations, and stakeholder engagement. The bill modifies how student performance is measured, introduces more nuanced assessment methods, and provides additional support for schools struggling to meet performance indicators. It establishes an accountability work group, mandates studies on assessment technologies and student count thresholds, and creates a statewide education accountability dashboard to make performance data more accessible. The bill also adjusts how special education students are counted in performance metrics and provides more flexibility for schools in developing improvement plans. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for external partnerships, community-led improvement strategies, and periodic evaluations of school transformation efforts, with the ultimate goal of ensuring equitable educational opportunities and accurately reflecting student progress across Colorado's public schools.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1278