New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB378

Introduced
12/12/23  
Refer
12/12/23  
Report Pass
2/6/24  
Engrossed
2/29/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Report Pass
5/15/24  
Enrolled
7/15/24  
Chaptered
7/30/24  

Caption

Relative to the performance-based school accountability system task force.

Impact

If passed, SB378 will impact state laws regarding school performance evaluations. The task force must define performance criteria, measurement methods, and establish ongoing review procedures to ensure that schools meet mandated educational standards. The continuous data collection and analysis mandated by the bill will require collaboration between the Department of Education and local schools, ultimately reshaping how educational success is gauged and reported. Furthermore, the introduction of a scoring system will standardize assessments in terms of college and career readiness, attendance, graduation rates, and other key performance indicators based on existing state and federal requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 378 seeks to establish a task force dedicated to the development and evaluation of a performance-based school accountability system (PBAS). The bill is framed as a response to the need for a structured approach that ensures schools provide adequate education opportunities as defined by state laws. By assembling a diverse group of stakeholders, including educational administrators, school board members, and community representatives, the bill aims to create a comprehensive oversight and measurement system for educational performance across New Hampshire schools.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB378 appears to be positive among supporters who view it as a necessary step towards greater accountability in education. Advocates argue that a structured PBAS will provide clearer insights into school performance, facilitating focused improvements where needed. However, some critics may raise concerns regarding the bureaucratic implications and whether this framework could lead to an overemphasis on standardized testing, potentially overshadowing broader educational goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB378 could revolve around how the task force is composed and whether it adequately represents the interests of all stakeholders in education. Some educators fear that the uniformity imposed by the PBAS may not consider the unique challenges faced by different schools. Furthermore, ensuring that the metrics used for performance evaluations align with the actual educational values of diverse communities may also become a significant topic of debate as the bill moves forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB266

Relative to the statewide education improvement and assessment program.

NH SB36

Relative to systems of care for healthy aging.

NH HB371

Establishing a commission to evaluate and recommend standards for public schools.

NH HB2

Relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures.

NH HB334

Relative to determination and cost of state adequate education.

NH HB529

Relative to additional aid grants for schools based on free and reduced price meals and fiscal capacity disparity.

NH HB452

Relative to the department of education procedures for school building aid applications.

NH HB437

Relative to a reading assessment and intervention program.

NH HB619

Prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors, relative to sex and gender in public schools, and relative to the definition of conversion therapy.

NH HB626

Requiring the department of education to administer the education freedom account.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.