HI HB327

Directs the University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Continuing Education and Community Service to establish a three-year pilot project implementing a comprehensive assessment program for grades 7-9 students in public and charter schools on Hawaii Island.

Assessment program must be empirically grounded, aligned with common core state standards, and evaluate student performance in English, mathematics, reading, and science through achievement exams with multi-layered reporting.

Requires the University of Hawaii at Hilo to study existing programs in the public school system designed to enhance educational delivery and determine their effectiveness.

University must submit a progress report to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2014 regular session and a final report with legislative recommendations no later than 20 days before the 2016 regular session.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2013-2014 to implement the pilot project; measure takes effect July 1, 2013 and repeals June 30, 2016.