Last week was a short week for the Kansas Legislature because of the turnaround process.

The Senate met three days and worked one bill on the floor. The rest of the work was done on Senate bills in committee meetings. At this point in the legislative session, we should be working bills that were passed by the House, but it has become “standard” to continue working on Senate bills at this time.  

Last week was a short week for the Kansas Legislature because of the turnaround process.

The Senate met three days and worked one bill on the floor. The rest of the work was done on Senate bills in committee meetings. At this point in the legislative session, we should be working bills that were passed by the House, but it has become “standard” to continue working on Senate bills at this time.  

The Senate passed SB 176, which would allow 28 school districts to apply to the state school board to become an “Innovative District.” Schools selected to participate and become an Innovative District will continue to receive state funding and to opt out of some of the state laws, rules and regulations to improve student achievement. Selected districts would have to continue to participate in all applicable Kansas math and reading assessments, abide by all financial and auditing requirements, comply with all applicable health, safety and access laws, and be subject to laws governing finance and general obligation bonds. The districts would be required to report information regarding pupil performance and the successes or problems experienced by the school district.  Each district also would be required to meet once a month with other participating districts. SB 176 passed on a vote of 31-7. [Editor’s note: Tyson was among those voting yes on SB 176.]

Caryn Tyson is a Kansas state senator, representing District 12, which includes Franklin County. Email her at Caryn.Tyson@senate.ks.gov or call (785) 296-6838.