The bill amends the Revised School Code by adding Section 1280h, which mandates the development of a system for expanded accountability measurements for public schools designated as alternative education campuses by January 1, 2028. The criteria for designating a school as an alternative education campus include being a strict discipline academy, operating a dropout recovery program, exclusively providing adult education, or having prior approval as an alternative education campus. By June 30, 2028, and annually thereafter, the Department of Education is required to assign a rating from 0 to 100 to these schools based on specific criteria, including student growth, graduation rates, and student proficiency data.

The bill outlines that the ratings must be publicly reported and compared only among alternative education campuses. It emphasizes that student growth will be the primary factor in determining ratings, with graduation rates receiving equal weight. Additionally, the bill requires the Department to describe the criteria and processes involved in the rating system, ensuring stakeholder input in its design and implementation. The data reported must be distinct for alternative education campuses, and intervention plans for schools identified for support must align with the unique needs of alternative education programs.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 380.1, 380.1852