HF2790 Summary

• Creates education boards as a new governance structure that separates school oversight from operations, with education boards approving and holding schools accountable through performance contracts rather than operating schools directly.

• Allows school boards to convert to education boards by adopting a resolution and converting all school sites to site-governed schools, area learning centers, contract alternative schools, or chartered schools.

• Permits eligible voters to petition for conversion to an education board, with the proposal submitted to voters at the next general election; conversion becomes effective September 1 following voter approval by majority vote.

• Requires education boards to allocate a minimum of 95 percent of local, state, and federal revenue to school sites, with the board retaining funds for administrative services including legal counsel, finance, and special education programs.

• Education boards and their schools receive the same exemptions from state laws and rules as charter schools, but must comply with collective bargaining agreements, chapters 13 and 13D, and sections relating to teacher employment.