1. A. Eligible applicants may apply for funding to implement the community schools initiative.
2. B. A school district is responsible for any indirect costs associated with the establishment and implementation of a community school within the school district.

3. C. An eligible applicant that receives funds to transform a public school into a community school shall:

   1. (1) use a rigorous, transparent, equitable, and evidence-based evaluation system to measure the effectiveness of the implementation of the community schools initiative;

   2. (2) provide ongoing, high-quality professional development for staff that:

      1. (a) aligns with the community school’s core instructional program;
      2. (b) facilitates and supports effective teaching and learning; and
      3. (c) supports the implementation of school reform strategies and evidence-based interventions, programs, and practices;

   3. (3) give the community school sufficient operational flexibility in evidence-based programming, curriculum, staffing, budgeting, and scheduling to implement a comprehensive community school framework focused on improving:

      1. (a) community school culture and climate;
      2. (b) student academic achievement;
      3. (c) student attendance;
      4. (d) student behavior, including through the provision of positive discipline practices, restorative practices, and other positive behavioral supports and interventions for students;
      5. (e) quality family engagement; and
      6. (f) for high schools, graduation rates and readiness for college or career;

[6.30.15.10 NMAC – N, 8/10/2021]