Bill No.:         HB0003                                             Drafter: DRN

LSO No.:       14LSO-0085                                     Effective Date: Immediate

Enrolled Act No.:    HEA0005

Chapter No.:                        CH0010

Prime Sponsor:       Joint Education Interim Committee

Catch Title:              Alternative schools.

Subject:                     Allows creation of alternative schools.

Summary/Major Elements:

· The bill eliminates the moratorium previously imposed on alternative schools under the education resource block grant model, subject to specified conditions.

· Creation of alternative schools has been prohibited for several years, this bill allows districts to apply to the department of education for permission to create an alternative school.

· A detailed educational plan for the school is required, including analysis of at-risk programs and special needs populations, annual reporting of assessment and achievement data and other requirements as specified.

· The bill provides for inclusion of alternative schools in school facility planning after two successful evaluations demonstrating academic progress as specified.

Comments:

· Amends a major program:  school finance, education and school capital construction.