The bill amends the Revised School Code of Michigan to enhance the organization and operation of public school academies. It mandates that these academies be governed by a board of directors and adhere to specific bylaws, while prohibiting affiliations with religious organizations. The bill introduces new requirements for public school academies to demonstrate improved academic achievement for all student groups, assessed through the Michigan student test of educational progress (M-STEP) or other state assessments. Additionally, it establishes criteria for authorizing bodies, such as school district boards and community colleges, to consider when issuing contracts, and allows applicants to petition for a vote if their contract is denied.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes governance, transparency, and compliance, requiring boards to ensure adherence to existing laws and maintain operational information publicly. It outlines the process for establishing "schools of excellence," including limits on cyber school contracts and the necessity for schools to be organized under nonprofit laws. The bill also revises requirements for the Michigan merit examination, incorporating new language on genocide education and defining specific educational terms. Notably, the bill will not take effect unless House Bill No. 4157 is enacted, linking its implementation to the passage of that legislation.