Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes parents to petition schools to implement a redesign plan.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a public school to be converted to a “conversion school” if the school performs in the bottom 5 percent of schools in the state (Sec. 543).

• Defines “conversion school” as a public school previously operated by a school district that has been converted through a public school intervention model under a redesign plan (Sec. 541).

• Requires the implementation of the public school intervention model under a redesign plan if a parental petition meets the following requirements (Sec. 543):
• The petition is submitted within 90 days of the public school being placed on the list of schools that perform in the bottom 5 percent of schools in the state; and
• The petition has signatures from at least 60 percent of parents and guardians, or has signatures from at least 51 percent of parents and guardians and 60 percent of teachers.

• Requires the school board to notify parents within 7 days of a public school being placed under the supervision of the state school reform and redesign officer (Sec. 543).

• Requires the state school emergency manager to implement the school intervention model and redesign plan recommended in the parental petition, with the emergency manager acting in the capacity of the school board (Sec. 1280).

• Authorizes the revocation of the contract authorizing a conversion school if 1 or more of the following have occurred (Sec. 543):
• The conversion school failed to demonstrate measurable academic achievement and progress for all pupils as set forth in the contract;
• The conversion school failed to comply with all applicable laws; or
• The conversion school failed to demonstrate fiscal responsibility.

Full Bill Text