School accreditation; allowing a school district to request a due process hearing prior to the State Board of Education taking certain action. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
If enacted, SB699 would significantly impact the existing framework of school accreditation by providing a more structured avenue for schools to contest deficiencies. Under the current system, schools facing accreditation challenges may be abruptly penalized without the chance for recourse. This law would foster a more balanced relationship between educational institutions and governing bodies, potentially leading to improved compliance with accreditation standards as schools become more proactive in addressing concerns.
Summary
Senate Bill 699, presented by Senator Pugh, seeks to amend existing laws surrounding school accreditation in Oklahoma. The bill emphasizes the importance of establishing standards for public school accreditation that align with both state and nationally recognized criteria. A central feature of this bill is the introduction of a due process hearing that schools may request before the State Board of Education makes decisions regarding their accreditation status. This is intended to ensure schools have a fair opportunity to address and remedy any deficiencies before penalties are imposed.
Conclusion
Overall, SB699 aims to update and enhance the accreditation process within Oklahoma schools, addressing previous shortcomings in the system. By allowing schools to contest decisions made against them and by setting clear standards, the bill aspires to pave the way for improved educational quality and equality across the state.
Contention
Discussion around SB699 indicates that there are contrasting viewpoints regarding the bill’s provisions. Supporters argue that the due process inclusion is a necessary reform that promotes accountability and transparency within the educational system. However, some critics express concerns that additional bureaucratic requirements may complicate the accreditation process further and detract from school resources that are already strained. Balancing proper oversight with adequate support for schools remains a point of deliberation among stakeholders.
Schools; accreditation; granting authority; process; directing State Board of Education to notify Legislature if school fails to take certain action; effective date; emergency.
Schools; allowing a school district or charter school to include virtual days in its school year policy; providing reasons for virtual days. Effective date. Emergency.
State Board of Education; allowing use of redbud fund grants for certain building fund purposes; State Board of Education; repealer. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; making an appropriation to the State Board of Education; establishing minimum salary schedule; modifying State Aid weights; effective date; emergency.
Schools; making an appropriation to the State Board of Education; establishing minimum salary schedule; modifying State Aid weights; effective date; emergency.
Schools; requiring annual submission of class size report; providing stipend for teachers of certain classes; exempting certain districts from certain financial penalty; effective date; emergency.
Schools; allowing the statewide system of student assessments to include certain retest and career-readiness and armed services assessments; providing certain exemption; effective date; emergency.
Schools; accreditation standards; deficiencies; permitting school districts to request a hearing on accreditation recommendations; effective date; emergency.
Schools; accreditation; granting authority; process; directing State Board of Education to notify Legislature if school fails to take certain action; effective date; emergency.
Schools; requiring annual submission of class size report; providing stipend for teachers of certain classes; exempting certain districts from certain financial penalty; effective date; emergency.
Requiring school districts to be in compliance with all state laws and rules and regulations to be accredited and requiring the state board of education to establish a process to challenge determinations of such compliance.