The bill amends existing Arizona law regarding the employment terms of superintendents and principals in school districts. It extends the maximum term of employment for superintendents from three years to allow for contracts that may be extended or renegotiated no earlier than fifteen months before the contract expires. Additionally, it introduces provisions allowing governing boards to terminate a superintendent's contract if they violate board policies or if any school in the district receives a D or F grade for three consecutive years. Importantly, if a contract is terminated under these conditions, the superintendent cannot claim damages for early termination.

For principals, the bill similarly adjusts the timeline for contract negotiations, allowing for extensions or negotiations to occur in May of the year preceding the final year of the contract. It also mandates that governing boards establish performance evaluation systems for principals and other school administrators, ensuring that evaluations include recommendations for improvement and appeal procedures for those who disagree with their evaluations. The bill aims to enhance accountability and performance standards within school leadership while providing clearer guidelines for contract management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-503
House Engrossed Version: 15-503