Summary of Sub. H.B. No. 597

• Repeals Common Core Standards: Prohibits adoption of Common Core State Standards Initiative (CCSS) for English language arts and mathematics, and prevents use of PARCC or Smarter Balanced assessments; voids any previous CCSS adoption actions.

• Requires New Academic Standards: Mandates state board adopt new academic content standards by June 30, 2017 for English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies that are distinct from previously adopted standards and emphasize core knowledge, liberal arts, and include specific requirements for literature-based reading instruction and standard mathematical algorithms.

• Prohibits State Model Curricula: Eliminates requirement for state board to develop model curricula aligned with academic standards, though standards and assessments remain mandatory.

• Changes Graduation Requirements: Modifies high school diploma requirements for students entering ninth grade on or after July 1, 2014, allowing them to qualify through multiple pathways including remediation-free nationally standardized assessments, end-of-course examinations, or job skills assessments with industry credentials.

• Establishes Legislative Oversight: Creates academic content standards steering committee requiring legislative approval of new standards through concurrent resolution, with subject-matter subcommittees reviewing standards before state board adoption.