Senate Bill 1029 - School Turnaround Act Summary

• Creates the School Turnaround Act establishing a framework for designating and improving the lowest-performing 5% of public and charter schools beginning in 2019.

• Requires schools designated as "Schools in Need of Intervention" (SNI) to form turnaround committees with trustees, principals, parents, teachers, community members, and students (for secondary schools) to develop improvement plans with independent turnaround experts by October 30 of the initial remedial year.

• Independent turnaround experts must have proven track records in improving student achievement, experience with data-driven instruction, and be willing to accept performance-based compensation with up to 75% paid during work and remainder paid upon demonstrating school improvement within 2 years.

• Schools receive state funding for approved turnaround plans if the governing authority provides matching funds of up to 50% or in-kind contributions; failing schools may receive a 2-year extension and access to a School Recognition and Reward Program.

• Establishes a School Leadership Development Program providing incentive pay to school leaders completing leadership training who commit to working in schools in need of intervention for at least 3 years.