NC H393

Appropriates $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2013-2014 to reduce the LEA Adjustment, which currently requires public schools to return 4.6% of appropriated funding, with intent to eliminate the adjustment by 2015-2016.

Provides $8,000,000 annually for standardized testing (EXPLORE for 8th graders, PLAN for 10th graders, ACT for 11th graders) and $52.6 million in 2013-2014 rising to $66.8 million in 2014-2015 for Comprehensive Reading Initiative including summer camps, tutoring, and assessment programs.

Establishes funding for multiple teacher recruitment and support programs including NC Teacher Corps ($1.8 million for 2014-2015 supporting 250 teachers), Teach for America ($2.5 million for 125 teachers), and Regional Leadership Academies ($8 million for 2014-2015).

Appropriates $60,000,000 annually for classroom technology needs including handheld devices, digital content, network infrastructure, and funds for lowest-achieving school improvements totaling $40.8 million in 2014-2015.

Provides specialized funding for schools serving blind and deaf students including $858,000 for safety equipment, technology upgrades, career technical education programs, and summer school initiatives.