Bill > S2862

This bill establishes the Commonwealth Middle School Innovation Fund to provide grants to local school districts and community partners for project-centered group learning programs in grades 5-8. The fund aims to support interdisciplinary learning that integrates multiple subject areas, particularly science and mathematics, and promotes learning across different student skill levels. The fund will be financed through legislative appropriations, gifts, and grants, with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education responsible for identifying and securing funding sources. A new Commonwealth Middle School Innovation Council will be created to advise the department, consisting of 12 members appointed by the governor, including representatives from school committees, superintendents, educators, parents, labor organizations, and higher education. The council will meet at least twice annually in public sessions and will be chaired by the department's commissioner. The department will be required to produce an annual report detailing grant recipients, innovative programs developed, replication opportunities, and potential legislative or regulatory recommendations, which will be submitted to the Senate and House clerks and made publicly accessible by December 31 each year. Grants can be used for personnel costs, curriculum development, and materials, with an emphasis on creating sustainable and replicable educational programs.

Budget and Finance

Committee on Education (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2862