Connecticut House Bill HB06197

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/13
• Refer: 1/28/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Creation Of A Preference For Selection In The Commissioner's Network Of Schools.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6197 would modify criteria for selecting schools to participate in the commissioner’s network. Specifically, schools that have a proven history of effectively turning around academic performance or have been recipients of significant federal improvement funds would be given preferential treatment. This could lead to a more targeted approach in educational reform efforts, potentially increasing the effectiveness of state resources in improving struggling schools and ultimately benefiting students in those areas.

Summary

House Bill 6197 proposes amendments to section 10-223h of the general statutes concerning the establishment of preferences in the selection process for the commissioner's network of schools. The focus of this bill is to enhance educational outcomes by prioritizing schools in districts that have experience with school turnaround initiatives or that have previously received school improvement grants as outlined in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The intent is to ensure that resources and support are directed toward institutions that have demonstrated the capacity to improve academic performance under challenging circumstances.

Contention

While the bill aims to focus efforts on schools with a track record of improvement, it may raise concerns among stakeholders about equity. Critics might argue that this approach could disadvantage schools without previous intervention history, thereby perpetuating existing disparities in educational opportunities. There may also be debates about the effectiveness of past turnaround efforts and whether they can serve as a reliable metric for future selections. As education stakeholders discuss the implementation of such preferences, it is essential to consider the broader implications on educational equity and access.