Bill Caption

Relating to the conditions under which a closed campus may be repurposed to serve students at that campus location.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Under current law, a failed school campus which has been closed by the commissioner of education may only be repurposed to serve students under certain limited circumstances. HB 4205 would add an additional option for the repurposing of a failed school campus for which the education commissioner orders closure. 

HB 4205 would allow a failed school campus to be repurposed if it is operated by a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that has a governing board that is independent of the school district, has a successful history of operating school district campuses or open-enrollment charter schools, and meets other criteria demonstrating its ability and worthiness to take on the project. The new school would be required to admit students for enrollment that reside in the attendance zone of the closed campus.

HB 4205 would also allow for campuses to submit an accelerated turnaround plan, which would have to include the hiring of principals and teachers that have certain experience and a history of high performance.

Vote Recommendation Notes

We support HB 4205 which is consistent with the scope of limited government.