Schools; authorizing the State Board of Education to assist in establishing community school pilot projects; effective date.
Impact
If enacted, HB3501 would empower the State Board of Education to assist in setting up these community schools by providing grants, contingent on available funding. By authorizing the creation of pilot projects within school districts or specific school sites, the bill promotes localized educational solutions. The projects are required to include a community school coordinator and a thorough needs assessment process that incorporates input from various stakeholders, thereby ensuring that the schools are responsive to community needs.
Summary
House Bill 3501 aims to establish community school pilot projects in Oklahoma, providing a framework for schools that cater specifically to the needs of their local neighborhoods. The bill defines 'community schools' as public schools that offer tailored services and supports to students, with a strong emphasis on community involvement, including families, educators, and local organizations. This collaborative approach seeks to enhance educational outcomes through tailored services both before and after school, fostering a supportive educational environment.
Contention
The potential for divergence in local governance could be a point of contention, as the legislation places responsibilities on school districts while striving for a balance of state oversight and local community autonomy. Some may argue that while community engagement is vital, additional state involvement in regulation and funding can complicate the operational independence of local schools.
Provisions
The bill further stipulates essential elements that need to be included in the pilot project plans, such as ongoing stakeholder engagement processes, collaborative leadership practices, and additional educational components like strengthened curricula and integrated support services for students. This comprehensive framework positions community schools to address not just academic needs, but the holistic development of students.
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; directing establishment of pilot program to employ literacy instructional team. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; making an appropriation to the State Board of Education; establishing minimum salary schedule; providing certain stipends; modifying the Stat Aid fundin formula; effective date; emergency.
Schools; Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education; authorizing technology center school district board of education to donate certain equipment; effective date.