require that the secretary of the Department of Education apply to the United States Department of Education for the authority to develop and implement an innovative assessment system.

HB 1152 requires South Dakota's Department of Education to apply to the U.S. Department of Education for authority to create a new assessment system. If approved, the state must develop and implement an assessment model that meets specific federal requirements, including measuring student growth in reading and math, aligning with existing academic standards, using science-based literacy practices, and reinforcing foundational math skills. The bill directly affects South Dakota public schools and the Department of Education, mandating consultation with educators and parents during development. This change would replace current state assessment practices with a federally approved system starting January 1, 2026.