The Substitute Senate Bill No. 1288 proposes significant reforms to Connecticut's education system, particularly focusing on interdistrict magnet schools and special education services. Key provisions include the repeal of certain requirements for annual grant applications for interdistrict magnet schools, now allowing the Commissioner of Education to consider factors such as student achievement and racial and economic isolation when approving applications. The bill also modifies grant eligibility criteria, introduces financial penalties for schools that fail to meet enrollment standards, and clarifies the responsibilities of sending and receiving districts regarding special education services. Additionally, it allocates funding for capital expenses at interdistrict magnet schools and establishes a new structure for transportation grants, allowing for a maximum of $1,300 per child transported.

Moreover, the bill updates the teacher education and mentoring program by replacing the term "provisional" with "professional" for educator certificates and requiring local boards to develop comprehensive mentoring plans. It mandates that mentors provide a minimum of fifty contact hours to beginning teachers and receive stipends for their work. The legislation also includes new requirements for contracts with private special education providers, ensuring transparency in tuition calculations and service reporting. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational support, improve compliance with standards, and streamline financial management within Connecticut's school systems, with all changes set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-264i, 10-145r, 10-145o, 10-74v, 10-76d, 10-5, 10-221a, 10-91j
ED Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-264i, 10-145r, 10-91j
File No. 699: 10-264i, 10-145r, 10-91j