If the Race to the Top is a relay, the baton was passed today. The House Education Committee moved HB 5623 to the House floor. During committee debate lawmakers made several changes to the legislation and the H-2 version varies quite a bit from the introduced bill.

 

One of the major differences is the total lack of local district flexibility in chartering schools. As you recall, MASB has asserted the importance of flexibility for local districts when chartering to include alterations to the work rules, seniority and staffing issues. We’re still working with Chairman Melton and members of the House to add amendments to the bill when it reaches the House floor.

 

Additionally, an amendment was added to the legislation that changes the definition of how much student growth data will impact a teacher or administrator annual review. The previous legislation included a 60% minimum, while the passed version does not include a number.

 

The issue of Labor Day start is still in the legislation, however only schools that are among the 5% lowest achieving in the state will be allowed to start before Labor Day. MASB has supported repealing the requirement of post Labor Day start, but the tourism industry lobbied legislators quite a bit in recent days to soften the repealing language.

 

The committee also took testimony on SB 925 and 926 that would create “schools of excellence” and effectively lift the current cap on university sponsored charter schools. There will be other hearings on this legislation and MASB has been invited to provide testimony and input.

 

For information on Race to the Top or other legislative matters, contact Don Wotruba or Peter Spadafore.

 

- Peter Spadafore, MASB

 

1 comment(s) so far...

Re: Passing the Baton Peter, well written and thanks for the update. -Britt By Britt on   Wednesday, December 09, 2009 10:53 AM

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