Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would significantly reshape how public schools in the state can operate, giving local school committees the authority to authorize these schools based on an 'innovation plan'. This plan will outline the specific areas where a school seeks operational flexibility and autonomy. In return, innovation schools will receive a per-pupil funding allocation similar to other district schools, with the potential to retain unused funds for future use. This model envisions a more tailored education experience, catering to the specific needs and outcomes of the student population.
Summary
House Bill 7723 proposes the establishment of 'innovation schools' within Rhode Island's public education system, aimed at improving school performance and boosting student achievement. These schools will operate with increased autonomy and flexibility in various operational aspects, including curriculum design, budgeting, and staffing policies. The bill allows both the creation of new schools and the conversion of existing ones into innovation schools, ensuring that current students have the choice to remain at their enrolled institutions during this transition.
Contention
However, the proposal could raise concerns regarding governance and accountability within the public education system. Critics might argue that while the intent is to foster innovative educational practices, too much autonomy could dilute oversight and regulation of educational standards. Additionally, the process for establishing these schools involves a collaborative approach with various stakeholders, including teacher unions and local communities, which could lead to disputes over implementation and community representation. The bill attempts to lay out a structured framework for this process but may face pushback from advocates for traditional public school models.
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Joint Legislative Commission To Review And Provide Recommendations For Professional And Labor-management Standards That Provide School-based Flexibility And Accountability For Employees Of The Providence Public Schools
Senate Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Review And Provide Recommendations For Professional And Labor-management Standards That Provide School-based Flexibility And Accountability For Employees Of The Providence Public Schools
Authorizing The Town Of Coventry To Issue Not More Than $25,000,000 Bonds And Notes To Finance Construction, Renovation, Rehabilitation, Repair, Improvement, Furnishing And/or Equipping Of And/or Additions To Schools And School Facilities Throughout The Town, Subject To Approval Of State School Housing Aid At A Reimbursement Rate Or State Share Ratio Of Not Less Than 49.2 % For Expenditures Eligible For Reimbursement
Authorizing The Town Of Coventry To Issue Not More Than $25,000,000 Bonds And Notes To Finance Construction, Renovation, Rehabilitation, Repair, Improvement, Furnishing And/or Equipping Of And/or Additions To Schools And School Facilities Throughout The Town, Subject To Approval Of State School Housing Aid At A Reimbursement Rate Or State Share Ratio Of Not Less Than 49.2 % For Expenditures Eligible For Reimbursement
Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.
Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.