MO HB2039

State board of education may approve one pilot program school per district for accelerated reading instruction in early childhood and early elementary grades, sponsored by the district and operated under contract with an adjacent school district.

Pilot program school shall operate for four years and use a reading program with proven success in high-density urban and metropolitan districts, with the goal of increasing children reading on grade level by end of third grade.

State board of education may establish expedited approval process for pilot program schools consistent with accepted best practices in charter school operation and reading instruction.

Operator may notify sponsor of intent not to renew charter no earlier than the third year of operation.

Bill also clarifies existing charter school requirements including sponsor obligations, background checks for board members, financial disclosure requirements, and state board oversight authority.