HB72 Summary

• Changes the terminology in Alabama's school grading system from "failing school" to "challenged school" and "nonfailing school" to "nonchallenged school" throughout the state code and Alabama Accountability Act of 2013.

• Updates the income tax credit program to provide financial assistance to parents transferring students from challenged schools to nonchallenged public schools or nonpublic schools, with the credit equal to 80% of average annual state attendance cost or actual school costs, whichever is less.

• Requires the State Board of Education to use the new terminology when amending or adopting rules related to school grading and accountability standards.

• Establishes that schools receiving an "F" grade are designated as "challenged" rather than "failing to make adequate progress," affecting how schools are labeled and publicly identified.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.