HB2448 Summary

• Establishes "Schools of Innovation" program allowing public schools to submit innovation plans to the state board of education for approval to implement new instructional and administrative practices.

• Innovation plans must include mission statement, description of innovative practices, implementation timeline (not exceeding 5 years), proof of school district governing board or charter school governing body resolution, stakeholder engagement documentation, and assessment measures.

• Schools may request exemptions from instructional hours requirements and other rules or policies hindering implementation, but cannot request exemptions from statewide assessment participation or state/federal accountability system requirements.

• Creates mandatory evaluation plan requiring the department of education to assess schools of innovation on student engagement, performance on assessments, high school and postsecondary success, instructional practices, and communication strategies; requires annual report to governor and legislature.

• Protects students transferring from schools of innovation by prohibiting repetition of mastered coursework or grade changes, and requires Arizona Board of Regents and community college districts to establish fair admission and scholarship policies for innovation school graduates with nontraditional diplomas.