Substitute Senate Bill No. 1349 seeks to reform the charter school approval process in Connecticut by establishing a Statewide Office of School Choice within the Department of Education, effective July 1, 2025. This new office will be responsible for overseeing the charter school application and renewal processes, creating a centralized repository for information on interdistrict magnet school programs, and enhancing transparency in the funding process for charter schools. The bill mandates the office to produce a report by July 1, 2026, which will include consultations with stakeholders to improve the initial funding process. Additionally, the bill amends Section 10-66bb of the general statutes, removing the initial approval timeline and introducing an annual request for proposals from eligible organizations, while emphasizing the need for charter schools to serve specific student populations and improve educational opportunities for underrepresented groups.

The bill also introduces several key changes to the charter school approval and renewal processes, including the elimination of the initial certificate requirement, allowing the State Board of Education to grant full charters directly. It establishes new application requirements, such as mission statements and community interest assessments, and mandates local boards of education to review applications and hold public hearings. Furthermore, the bill allows for the probation of charter schools by the Commissioner of Education for inadequate performance and modifies enrollment procedures to enhance inclusivity. The bill repeals Section 10-66gg and substitutes it with new provisions, while also incurring costs to the General Fund for staffing and operational expenses associated with the new office. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and inclusivity within Connecticut's charter school system.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-66bb, 10-66gg, 10-66rr
ED Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 10-66bb, 10-66gg, 10-66rr
APP Joint Favorable: 10-66bb, 10-66gg, 10-66rr
File No. 874: 10-66bb, 10-66gg, 10-66rr