H259 - 2023 Appropriations Act. (SL 2023-134)

Overview: Section 7.63 of S.L. 2023-134 directs the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to use up to $7 million for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years for the Extended Learning and Integrated Student Supports Competitive Grant Program (Program). The purpose of the Program is to fund high-quality, independently validated extended learning and integrated student support service programs for at-risk students (not performing at grade level, at risk of dropping out, at risk of school displacement due to suspension or expulsion) that raise standards for student academic outcomes by focusing on the following:

• Use of a successful evidence-based model.
• Inclusion of rigorous, quantitative performance measures to confirm effectiveness of the program.
• Deployment of multiple tiered supports in schools to address student barriers to achievement.
• Alignment with State performance measures, student academic goals, and the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.
• Integration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities or reading development and proficiency instruction.
• Minimization of student class size when providing instruction or instructional supports and interventions.
• Expansion of student access to high-quality learning activities and academic support that strengthen student engagement and leverage community-based resources.
• Utilization of digital content to expand learning time.

Grants will be used to award funds for new or existing eligible programs for at-risk students operated by nonprofit corporations and nonprofit corporations collaborating with local school administrative units. Grant recipients are eligible to receive grants for up to two years in an amount up to $500,000 each year. The funds received must be matched at a rate of $3 in grant funds to $1 in nongrant funds.

Grant recipients must report to DPI on (i) alignment with State academic standards, (ii) data collection for reporting student progress, (iii) the source and amount of matching funds, (iv) and other measures before receiving a second year of funding. Grant recipients will also submit a final report on key performance data, including statewide test results, attendance rates, graduation rates, and promotion rates, and financial sustainability of the Program.

DPI must provide an interim report on the Program to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by September 15, 2024, and a final report by September 15, 2025. The final report must include the final results of the Program and recommendations for future grant programs.

This section became effective July 1, 2023.