New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB378

Introduced
12/12/23  
Refer
12/12/23  
Report Pass
2/6/24  
Engrossed
2/29/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Report Pass
5/15/24  
Enrolled
7/15/24  
Chaptered
7/30/24  

Caption

Relative to the performance-based school accountability system task force.

Impact

If passed, SB378 will impact state laws regarding school performance evaluations. The task force must define performance criteria, measurement methods, and establish ongoing review procedures to ensure that schools meet mandated educational standards. The continuous data collection and analysis mandated by the bill will require collaboration between the Department of Education and local schools, ultimately reshaping how educational success is gauged and reported. Furthermore, the introduction of a scoring system will standardize assessments in terms of college and career readiness, attendance, graduation rates, and other key performance indicators based on existing state and federal requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 378 seeks to establish a task force dedicated to the development and evaluation of a performance-based school accountability system (PBAS). The bill is framed as a response to the need for a structured approach that ensures schools provide adequate education opportunities as defined by state laws. By assembling a diverse group of stakeholders, including educational administrators, school board members, and community representatives, the bill aims to create a comprehensive oversight and measurement system for educational performance across New Hampshire schools.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB378 appears to be positive among supporters who view it as a necessary step towards greater accountability in education. Advocates argue that a structured PBAS will provide clearer insights into school performance, facilitating focused improvements where needed. However, some critics may raise concerns regarding the bureaucratic implications and whether this framework could lead to an overemphasis on standardized testing, potentially overshadowing broader educational goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB378 could revolve around how the task force is composed and whether it adequately represents the interests of all stakeholders in education. Some educators fear that the uniformity imposed by the PBAS may not consider the unique challenges faced by different schools. Furthermore, ensuring that the metrics used for performance evaluations align with the actual educational values of diverse communities may also become a significant topic of debate as the bill moves forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1836

relative to the input-based accountability system requirements and enforcement.

NH HB864

State school and school district accountability system; eliminate certain criteria for measuring performance under.

NH SCR140

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION directing the Legislative Research Commission to establish the Performance-Based Education Task Force.

NH HB1716

relative to the academic accountability of education freedom accounts.

NH HB1323

Public school accountability system and performance framework; revisions and amendments required.

NH HB396

Public school grading system, revised to include and weight specific indicators for schools that include a 12th grade class and schools that do not include a 12th grade class; Alabama Workforce Development Board and State Department of Education to develop system to analyze student performance data, Accountability Council created

NH AB84

School accountability: Office of the Education Inspector General: school financial and performance audits: charter school authorization, oversight, funding, operations, networks, and contracting: data systems: local educational agency contractor background checks and contracting.

NH SB935

Relating to the Joint Task Force on Regional Behavioral Health Accountability; declaring an emergency.

NH SB1962

Relating to public school accountability, including the implementation of an instructionally supportive assessment program and the adoption and administration of assessment instruments in public schools, indicators of achievement and public school performance ratings under the public school accountability system, a grant program for school district local accountability plans, and actions challenging Texas Education Agency decisions related to public school accountability.

NH HB1439

School Accountability Dashboard Act; establish to provide parents with critical student performance data.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.