CS/HB 357 Summary

• Creates the Principal Autonomy Pilot Program Initiative allowing up to 6 school districts to exchange statutory and rule exemptions for performance contracts focused on improving student achievement and school management.

• Participating school districts must identify 3 middle or high schools whose principals receive increased fiscal and administrative autonomy, including authority to select instructional personnel and deploy financial resources.

• Participating schools are exempted from most laws in chapters 1000-1013 except those governing elections, student assessment, special education services, civil rights, student health/safety, personnel compensation, class size, and educational facilities.

• School districts participating in the program must allocate at least 90 percent of generated funds to participating schools (compared to the standard 80 percent minimum) and principals must complete professional development training through the William Cecil Golden Professional Development Program.

• Program authorization lasts 3 years with possible renewal or revocation based on performance; Commissioner of Education must submit full program evaluation to legislature by December 1 after the first 3-year term.