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Bill

SB 45

Substitute for SB 45 by Committee on Education - Requiring the state board of education to calculate graduation rates for all school districts for purposes of accreditation using an alternative calculation.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas mandates alternative graduation rate calculations for school accreditation, replacing previous methodology with unspecified new standards effective immediately.

Enrolled and presented to Governor on Monday, March 31, 2025
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Bill Summary · SB 45

Legislative bill overview

SB 45 requires Kansas's State Board of Education to use an alternative calculation method when determining graduation rates for school district accreditation purposes. The bill has been signed into law as of April 7, 2025, passing both chambers with overwhelming support (117-5 in the House, 40-0 in the Senate).

Why is this important

Graduation rate calculations directly affect how school districts are evaluated and rated by the state, potentially influencing funding, sanctions, or recognition. The alternative calculation methodology could change which students are counted in graduation rates and how districts compare to accountability standards, affecting educational policy decisions and resource allocation across Kansas.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language doesn't specify what the "alternative calculation" entails, raising questions about whether districts will have clear, consistent standards for measuring and reporting graduation rates
  • Accountability concerns: Changes to graduation rate calculations could mask or reveal underlying performance issues, depending on the alternative method's design—critics may worry about reduced accountability or supporters may see it as more accurate
  • Implementation details: Without clear guidance on the alternative method, districts may face confusion during transition, and comparability across districts and years could be compromised

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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