The bill amends section 15.1-02-11 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the accreditation of public and nonpublic schools by the superintendent of public instruction. It establishes that the superintendent may adopt rules for accreditation that incorporate measures of student achievement and provide schools with various accreditation options. These options include a state-defined accreditation process or accreditation through recognized organizations approved by the superintendent. The bill also mandates the establishment of a selection process for schools to choose their accreditation options, with input from a steering committee comprising education stakeholders.

Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for each accreditation option, ensuring they meet state standards and provide measurable outcomes for student achievement. Schools are allowed to select the accreditation option that best aligns with their instructional goals, subject to the superintendent's approval. Furthermore, the superintendent is tasked with contracting an accreditation organization to provide state-provided accreditation to public school districts at no charge, while districts opting for an accreditation process from the approved list will bear any associated costs.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-02-11
Adopted by the Senate Education Committee: 15.1-02-11
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15.1-02-11
Enrollment: 15.1-02-11