Schools; requiring the State Department of Education to amend state plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act; effective date; emergency.
Impact
The revisions proposed in HB 1131 stress the importance of comprehensive reporting on school performance based on various assessment criteria. Schools will now be graded on a five-tier grading system ranging from 'A' for excellent progress to 'F' for failing to meet standards. The changes will create a transparent framework for evaluating educational institutions, informing parents and stakeholders regarding the progress and effectiveness of schools in Oklahoma. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for online education assessments, indicating a shift in accountability for online charter schools and alternative programs.
Summary
House Bill 1131 introduces amendments to the existing Oklahoma statutes regarding school assessments and accountability. Specifically, it modifies Section 1210.545 of Title 70, which pertains to the annual reports required by the State Board of Education. The bill mandates the State Department of Education to revise the state's educational plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) by a specified deadline. This amendment aims to refine the indicators used for assessing schools and ensuring they align with federal standards while providing essential information on student achievement across the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1131 include discussions on the proposed inclusion of school climate surveys in lieu of chronic absenteeism metrics. Some educators view this amendment as a more holistic approach to assessing school effectiveness, while others may feel it shifts focus away from academic accountability. Further, the prohibition of grading schools with insufficient student enrollment raises concerns regarding the fairness of assessments. Discussions will likely revolve around how these changes impact funding models and the overall educational landscape in Oklahoma.
Schools; departure of certain students; reporting; requiring State Department of Education to creating a reporting portal; dropout reports; excluding certain students; effective date; emergency.
Schools; directing the State Board of Education to issue a request for proposals for a statewide student information system. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; student mental health; State Department of Education to create a school-based telehealth pilot program; request for proposals; definitions; optional school district participation; reporting to the Legislature; requiring the Department to seek funding; effective date; emergency.