Substitute Senate Bill No. 1458 proposes significant reforms to Connecticut's educational framework, specifically targeting the Commissioner’s Network of Schools and the Alliance District Programs, which will now be referred to as Opportunity Districts. The bill establishes a new timeline for selecting schools for the network, allowing selections only until July 1, 2025, and limiting participation to a maximum of three years without extensions. It mandates that schools develop turnaround plans with specific guidelines and deadlines, while the State Board of Education will provide necessary funding and support. The bill also reduces the number of designated Alliance Districts from 36 to 15, introduces the term "Legacy Alliance Districts" for those previously designated, and modifies the criteria for designation based on accountability index scores.

Additionally, the bill outlines changes to the equalization aid grant system, ensuring that designated Opportunity and Legacy Alliance Districts receive adequate funding based on their previous fiscal year entitlements or base grant amounts. It repeals certain existing provisions and replaces them with new language to emphasize the importance of these designations in determining grant amounts. The bill also mandates the establishment of a reading readiness program for Opportunity Districts and allows for technical assistance requests from low-performing districts not designated as Opportunity Districts. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance educational outcomes in underperforming districts through targeted funding, strategic planning, and a more structured support system.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-262u, 10-4q, 10-14y
ED Joint Favorable: 10-262u, 10-4q, 10-14y
File No. 701: 10-262u, 10-4q, 10-14y