School report card, academic achievement of students transferring from a failing school not considered for first three years following transfer.

HB 495 modifies Alabama's school grading system by excluding the academic performance of students who transfer from a school that received an "F" grade for the first three years they attend their new school. This applies specifically to students moving from failing schools to other public schools in Alabama. Under the bill, the new school's A-F grade won't factor in these students' past test scores or grades during their initial three years of enrollment. The provision takes effect for the 2026-2027 school year.