Education (Testing & Assessment)

SB 224 creates a new pathway for converting chronically underperforming public schools into "Department charter schools." It requires schools rated in Nevada's lowest 5% for three consecutive years to convert to Department charter schools, managed by the state Department of Education rather than local districts. The bill establishes a dedicated funding account for these schools, mandates principals to develop detailed instructional models (including curriculum and assessment plans), and sets specific rules for student enrollment continuity, employee retention, and building use. It also modifies existing charter school laws to apply to Department charter schools while clarifying they are distinct from traditional charters. This directly affects failing schools, their students, and staff, with key changes focused on governance, funding, and operational transition.