Bill > HB1545

This bill establishes a strict definition and implementation framework for "evidence-based" methods in public education and teacher preparation programs in New Hampshire. The bill defines "evidence-based" as methods that can be reproduced in multiple well-designed studies within a single discipline or independently confirmed across multiple disciplines, explicitly excluding subjective measurements like surveys or student progress reports. It mandates that all educational methods, including educator training and pedagogical approaches, must comply with this definition, with post-secondary teacher preparation programs given three years to conform. The bill introduces a comprehensive enforcement mechanism, including potential penalties for non-compliant institutions ranging from notifications and corrective plans to program probation and potential loss of accreditation. Institutions found non-compliant will have the right to appeal to the state board of education. The bill also allows limited exceptions for investigatory or experimental methods through carefully monitored pilot programs, and requires educational institutions to provide documentation supporting their use of the term "evidence-based" upon request. Notably, the bill emphasizes scientific repeatability over peer review, reflecting a rigorous approach to establishing educational methodologies' validity, with the goal of improving the scientific foundation of educational practices in the state.

Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=2370&sy=2026&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2026&txtbillnumber=HB1545