CT SB01103

Establishes a school districts of innovation program effective July 1, 2015, allowing the Commissioner of Education to administer waivers for local and regional school boards developing creative educational approaches.

Permits the State Board of Education to waive provisions of Connecticut General Statutes Title 10 and related regulations, except for specified sections (10-14n, 10-15, 10-16, 10-16b, 10-153a to 10-153t, and 10-221a) and federal law requirements.

Requires participating school boards to submit applications including a plan description, proposed outcomes, assessment methods, community partners, and specific statutory or regulatory waivers sought; waivers are valid for three years and may be renewed upon demonstrated success.

Mandates participating districts partner with a public institution of higher education to implement plans, provide instruction in best practices, and analyze implementation results.

Requires participating boards to submit annual progress reports and final results to the Department of Education, share results with other districts, and provide training on successful plans to other local and regional boards.