Bill > H728

This bill modifies several aspects of charter school regulation in Massachusetts, focusing on fiscal impact and accountability. The first section adjusts rules for net school spending caps when a district moves out of the lowest 10% performing districts, preventing additional charter school seats and limiting financial obligations for districts that have improved their performance. The second section requires the charter school board to establish approval criteria that explicitly consider the projected enrollment and financial impacts on sending districts when evaluating new charter school applications. The third section establishes more transparent procedures for charter school renewals by mandating that the board make renewal evidence publicly available at least 30 days before a vote, solicit public comments for a minimum of 30 days, and comprehensively review all submitted materials both supporting and opposing charter renewal. These changes aim to provide greater oversight, financial accountability, and public engagement in the charter school authorization and renewal processes, with a particular emphasis on understanding and mitigating potential negative impacts on traditional public school districts.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H728