Concord, New Hampshire — The State Board of Education recently unanimously approved a final proposal to amend rules that set out some of the minimum standards for public school accreditation, which outlines regulatory requirements for the operation of public school districts and public academies.
“This is a historic day for education in New Hampshire. Representatives from all walks of life have worked diligently together to build on our state's tradition of continuing local control and supporting students with regulations that maintain a learning system that meets the needs of all children,” said Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut. “After three years of transparent analysis and countless hours of constructive dialogue to strengthen minimum standards, I am pleased to have reached this important milestone that will further build on our state's strong educational foundation and ultimately improve learning for all students.”
Following a comprehensive, extensive and robust process with the active participation of many educators and school leaders, the State Board of Education recently voted to endorse the first half of ED 306.01-306.26, the minimum standards for public school approval. These updates will now be submitted to the New Hampshire Department of Legislative Services for review by the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Regulation.
“These revisions consolidate and streamline the minimum standards in a way that is easy for educators to understand, while also strengthening the system for demonstrating desired learning outcomes to prepare students for the real world,” said State Board of Education Chairman Drew Klein. “We are confident that these improvements will further align the rules with the goals of competency-based learning. We thank everyone who has worked tirelessly to make this groundbreaking achievement a reality, and we are ready to continue this great work.”
Previously, the New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) contracted with the National Center for Competency-Based Learning (NCCBL) to lead a team in developing a draft plan to be submitted to the State Board of Education for review. The committee received input from a record number of professional organizations, including teachers, school boards, school administrators, special educators, and principals. Several public hearings were held to gather public feedback.
“This is a significant document, and I am excited about the changes made to the minimum standards and what they mean for the ongoing support of our state's students. I believe these changes will have a significant impact in advancing competency-based learning and moving education forward in New Hampshire,” said Fred Bramante, president of the NCCBL and a former chairman of the State Board of Education who has worked for decades to rally people who want a dynamic education system in New Hampshire.
The State Board of Education will then consider the second half of the document (ED 306.31-306.46) with the same thoroughness and transparency as the first part. The legislative rulemaking process set forth in RSA 541-A provides for multiple checks and balances in the rulemaking process, as well as opportunities for public comment.