The bill implements the Student Opportunity Act, requiring Massachusetts school districts to create three-year evidence-based plans to address achievement disparities among student subgroups. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is responsible for collecting these plans and reporting on their progress. The deadline for plan submissions was originally set for April 1, 2020, but was extended to January 15, 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The report emphasizes the importance of focusing on underperforming student subgroups, utilizing evidence-based programs, and monitoring success through defined metrics. As of January 11, 2021, 201 plans had been submitted, representing 63% of the expected total.
The bill also outlines strategies for community engagement in educational planning, mandating DESE to collect and update data from all districts and charter schools by January. These plans will be made accessible on the DESE website, enhancing transparency and accountability. Furthermore, the bill specifies that additional details, including targets and annual updates, will be provided in an update scheduled for April, ensuring that all stakeholders remain informed and involved in the educational planning process.