Bill > H694

This bill aims to preserve local control over admissions policies for vocational-technical schools (Chapter 74 schools) by modifying existing Massachusetts law. The bill makes several key changes: it removes language about "conditions of admission" from existing statutes, and adds new provisions that specifically empower local district trustees or school committees to establish and modify admission requirements. The new provisions mandate that any changes to admission requirements must be made through a transparent process, including holding at least one public hearing at least 30 days after proposed changes are publicly announced. The hearing must allow public comments, and notice of the hearing and proposed changes must be sent to individuals and organizations previously expressing interest in vocational-technical education. These changes apply to different types of vocational-technical schools, including independent schools and those established under specific sections of Chapter 74, ensuring that local bodies have the authority to determine their own admission policies while maintaining a public input process. The bill essentially decentralizes decision-making about school admissions, giving more control to local educational authorities.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H694