Bill > S272

This bill makes several changes to charter school regulations in Massachusetts: It defines commonwealth charter schools as school districts for the purposes of certain disciplinary procedures. It establishes panels for charter schools to hear appeals of disciplinary actions and prohibits suspensions or expulsions based on academic performance. The bill also sets requirements for the composition of charter school boards of trustees, including representation from the sending district, teachers, and parents/guardians. The bill places restrictions on the approval of new or expanding charter schools based on their suspension rates compared to sending districts. It also requires charter schools to meet with sending district superintendents and hold public hearings as part of the application process. The legislation establishes procedures for charter school enrollment, including requirements for opt-out enrollment lotteries and rolling enrollment. It also addresses transportation requirements and costs for charter schools. The bill enhances transparency and reporting requirements for charter schools, including public disclosure of financial information, contracts, and meeting minutes. It also creates a teacher exchange program between charter and district schools. Finally, the bill adjusts the net school spending cap for school districts to account for their charter school tuition payments, and provides district impact mitigation funding and small district equity aid.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S272