HB 165 Summary

• Adds word "currently" to sibling preference in charter school admissions and establishes new preferences for converted public schools, proximity to school, district residence, teaching philosophy, at-risk students, and children of permanent employees (30+ hours/week).

• Requires charter schools to provide free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch to eligible students beginning in 2014-2015 school year and prohibits considering lunch program eligibility in enrollment decisions.

• Funds minor capital improvements for charter schools using the same method as Vocational Technical School Districts and grants Department of Education authority to redirect State funds if school districts fail to make timely charter school payments.

• Establishes Charter School Performance Fund (up to $5 million annually), conduit bond financing access for charter schools, and creates new charter renewal process with five-year terms, performance evaluations, and opportunity for ten-year renewals for outstanding performers.

• Adds requirements for charter school closure protocols, financial reserves by December 31, board governance training, and specifies procedures for charter approval, renewal, and revocation by authorizing authorities.