NC S321

Allows local boards of education to set modified school calendar dates for low-performing schools and school districts, deviating from standard calendar requirements in G.S. 115C-84.2(d).

Schools identified as low-performing may operate on a modified calendar indefinitely if they receive a D or F performance grade, but must revert to standard calendar requirements after three consecutive years of C or higher grades and no low-performing identification.

Requires school improvement teams to include in their plans: goals for the modified calendar, explanation of how it increases student achievement, calendar details, proposals for targeted learning interventions during breaks, and methods to measure satisfaction.

Mandates the Department of Public Instruction to study the effects of modified calendars on student performance by comparing low-performing schools using traditional versus modified calendars, with reports due to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by March 15, 2019, and annually thereafter.

Effective upon enactment for the 2017-2018 school year.