An Act furthering enrollment preferences for high need students

This bill allows Massachusetts charter schools to voluntarily give enrollment priority to high-need students, including low-income families, English learners, students with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness. Under the new rules, schools can admit these students at any time during the school year, whether they enter through the lottery or waitlist. The state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education must create specific guidelines to define eligible student groups and establish the process for implementing these preferences. This change applies to both lottery admissions and waitlist placements, giving charter schools more flexibility to support vulnerable student populations.