House committee substitute makes the following changes to 2nd edition.
Current law requires that the program of study for lateral entry teachers provided by the State Board of Community Colleges must meet standards set by the State Board of Education (SBE). Amends GS 115C-296(c1) to specify coursework, assessment, and preparation standards to be set by the SBE to ensure that programs for lateral entry teachers meet rigorous academic standards, remain current, and reflect a course of study that is aligned with state and national teacher education requirements.
Deletes the provision which calls for the lengthening of the school day and of the school year in certain schools.
Under current law, GS 115C-107.7(c) provides that a local education agency has a basis of knowledge of a child’s need for special education services based on a child’s behavior and performance prior to a behavior that necessitates a disciplinary action. GS 115C-107.7(c) is set to expire on June 1, 2013. Removes the sunset date for this provision.
Changes the reporting date for the State Board of Education’s study on graduation requirements for students who do not plan to engage in post-secondary education to March 15, 2013 (was, March 15, 2012).
Adds a section on statewide education initiatives. Directs the SBE to implement, by August 31, 2014, the statewide education reform initiatives described in the state’s successful Race to the Top application. Specifies the initiatives to be implemented. Directs the SBE to report its progress toward implementing the specified initiatives to the Joint Education Oversight Committee by September 15, 2012 and bi-annually thereafter through September 15, 2014. Provides that this section expires as of July 1, 2014 but permits the SBE to continue any initiatives identified in this section if it continues to receive funding for the initiatives. Renumbers the bill sections accordingly.