The bill implements the Student Opportunity Act, requiring school districts to create three-year evidence-based plans aimed at addressing disparities in student achievement. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is responsible for collecting these plans and reporting on their progress. Originally due by April 1, 2020, the submission deadline was extended to January 15, 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill emphasizes the importance of focusing on underperforming student subgroups and encourages districts to adopt specific evidence-based programs to close achievement gaps. As of January 11, 2021, 201 plans had been submitted, representing 63% of the expected total.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for DESE to collect and update district plans, incorporating input from community conversations, surveys, and school committee engagement. It mandates that all district plans be accessible on the DESE website, promoting transparency and public access to educational information. The Department will compile remaining plans from districts and charter schools by January, with an April update scheduled to provide specific targets and annual assessments, thereby enhancing accountability in educational strategies across the state.