MA S457

Establishes the Commonwealth Middle School Innovation Fund to provide grants to local school districts for project-centered group learning programs in grades 5-8, integrating subjects including science and mathematics for students at various skill levels

Grants may be used for personnel costs, curriculum development and design, and materials

Fund receives money from legislative appropriations, gifts, and grants; amounts do not revert to the general fund and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must seek additional grant funding

Creates the Commonwealth Middle School Innovation Council with 12 members including the Commissioner, Secretary of Education, Secretary of Energy and Economic Development, and 9 gubernatorial appointees representing educators, parents, school committees, superintendents, labor, and higher education

Requires annual report to the legislature by December 31 detailing grant recipients, innovative programs developed, replication opportunities, and legislative recommendations