Bill > S0952

This bill establishes a Charter School District Pilot Program within the Department of Education to grant principals of participating schools increased autonomy and authority in managing their schools to improve student achievement and operations. Up to six district school boards can participate by submitting a charter proposal that outlines how their selected middle or high schools will gain fiscal and administrative independence, with principals having the authority to select instructional staff and deploy financial resources at their discretion, while still adhering to certain state laws regarding public meetings, records, student assessments, and civil rights. Participating schools will be exempt from many state education laws and rules, but must meet specific performance goals outlined in their charter proposal, which will be evaluated after three years, and principals must complete specific professional development training. Additionally, schools in this pilot program will be guaranteed to receive at least 90 percent of the funds generated by that school, an increase from the previous 80 percent guarantee for most schools.