Bill > H4011

This bill proposes changes to school attendance regulations and establishes a pilot program for dropout prevention. Specifically, it directs the board to create rules for mandatory school attendance ages, including minimum and maximum limits, and requires all children to attend an approved kindergarten program, whether public, private, or licensed community-based. These regulations will also outline guidelines for kindergarten completion and establish a process for school districts or Commonwealth charter schools to grant exemptions for advanced students to start first grade early, as well as address alternative education options for those who exceed the maximum age without a diploma. Additionally, the bill authorizes the department of elementary and secondary education to implement a three-year pilot program, funded by appropriations, to combat student dropout rates in districts with higher-than-average rates. This program will offer competitive grants to school districts or local community agencies to run dropout prevention and recovery initiatives for high school students at risk of dropping out or who have already left school, utilizing methods such as alternative education programs, graduation coaches, targeted outreach and recovery efforts, and support for expectant and parenting students. The department will oversee the program's progress, conduct evaluations, and submit annual reports detailing its implementation and effectiveness, culminating in a final report with legislative recommendations on whether to continue, expand, or discontinue the program.