The "Report to the Legislature: Student Opportunity Act Three-Year Evidence-Based Plans (2022-2023 and 2023-2024)" outlines the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's (DESE) initiatives to assist school districts in formulating and executing three-year plans aimed at closing achievement gaps for historically underserved student populations. The report, covering the period from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, highlights the progress made by districts under the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) Plans, which focus on addressing disparities in educational experiences and outcomes. Key components of these plans include identifying student groups facing achievement gaps, utilizing evidence-based program areas, and engaging families and stakeholders in the planning process. The report also introduces a new SOA Dashboard for public access to district plans and progress, along with budget information and updates on family engagement efforts.

The bill emphasizes the importance of aligning SOA Plans with DESE's Educational Vision and improving data collection systems to better analyze and address disparities in student outcomes. It introduces new legal language that underscores the need for monitoring achievement targets, particularly for the lowest performing student groups, and outlines the Department's commitment to tracking progress in educational outcomes, including chronic absenteeism. Additionally, the bill details plans for developing new three-year gap-closing plans, implementing a Student Outcomes Comparison Tool, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. It aims to foster continuous improvement in educational outcomes, particularly for students facing significant disparities, while also focusing on creating a diverse and well-prepared workforce of educators to support these initiatives.