NC H730

Establishes a five-year Ninth Grade Academy Pilot Program (2018-2019 through 2022-2023) in up to 10 local school administrative units to provide comprehensive support for ninth grade students transitioning from middle school to high school.

Requires the Department of Public Instruction to develop application criteria by September 15, 2017, and select participating units by December 15, 2017, with preference for geographic diversity including urban and rural areas.

Mandates an independent research organization evaluate the pilot program annually, examining fund usage, student outcomes (proficiency, dropout rates, promotion rates, attendance), and comparison with other ninth grade academy models in North Carolina.

Appropriates $1,442,560 in recurring General Fund monies for fiscal year 2017-2018, with up to $200,000 available for research organization contracts and remaining funds awarded to selected school units for implementation.

Becomes effective July 1, 2017, with annual evaluation reports due to the State Board of Education by August 15 and legislative reports to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by October 15, with final reports in 2023.