A. The State Board of Education is authorized to assist, and if funds are available to make grants to, local boards of education for the establishment of pilot projects that replace the traditional organization of teaching and learning with innovative management and instructional systems and materials. Projects may involve entire districts, combinations of districts, combinations of schools, or elements of schools individually or in combination. Projects shall not supplant existing alternative school programs.
B. On or before March 31, 1990, the State Board of Education shall determine pilot project criteria, and by July 1, 1990, solicit proposals, and establish a process for the consideration of proposals. Such proposals for pilot projects shall be considered on a statewide competitive basis. Proposals which require a substantial policy-determination role for teachers and which include a process for measuring the progress and achievement of students involved shall be given preference.
C. The State Board of Education is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations for the operation of such projects and to grant exceptions to rules and regulations for districts selected to operate such projects. The State Board shall have the authority to require termination of a pilot project or its continuation at any time that it finds such termination to be in the best interests of the students involved.
Added by Laws 1989, c. 335, § 15, eff. July 1, 1989. Amended by Laws 1989, 1st Ex.Sess., c. 2, § 36, emerg. eff. April 25, 1990; Laws 1990, c. 263, § 65, operative July 1, 1990.