Senate Bill 2533 Summary

• Authorizes the State Board of Education to approve school districts as "districts of innovation" to gain exemptions from certain state regulations and local policies to improve student educational performance.

• Initial approval of districts of innovation is limited to five-year periods, with renewals not exceeding five years, and requires the State Board to promulgate administrative rules by December 31, 2015.

• Defines "community schools" as traditional public schools partnering with community organizations to provide integrated student supports, expanded learning time, family engagement, STEM programs, and collaborative leadership.

• Requires participating districts to establish goals such as reducing achievement gaps, increasing attendance, decreasing suspensions, improving college and career readiness, and expanding advanced placement opportunities.

• Permits districts of innovation flexibility in areas including capital outlay use, alternative employment contracts, online classes, flexible school calendars, and allows community schools to seek grants and donations from federal, state, and private sources.