Senate Bill 146 (Rhoades) would amend the Public School Code to provide for the implementation of academic improvement programs.  Under these provisions, each intermediate unit would be required to provide support to and coordinate an academic improvement program for any school district assigned to the intermediate unit that is eligible for academic assistance as specified in the bill.  Within 30 days of receiving the list of school districts eligible for academic assistance, an academic improvement team would have to be appointed for each eligible district.  The teams would be composed of members appointed by the intermediate unit and the school district.  Within 35 days of its appointment, the improvement team would have to present an academic improvement plan to the intermediate unit board of directors and the school district's board of directors.  The plan would have to include specific goals for improving academic performance and strategies designed to achieve these goals.  Within 45 days of the appointment of an academic improvement team, the school board would be required to vote to approve, or approve with amendments, the proposed plan at its next regularly scheduled monthly meeting.  The approved academic improvement plan would be effective as long as the school district is eligible for academic assistance.  Passed:  46-0.

Executive Session

Senate Resolution 51 (Musto) designates the month of March 2005 as "Read Across America Month" in Pennsylvania.  Adopted by Voice Vote.

Senate Resolution 52 (Rafferty) designates the month of March 2005 as "Mental Retardation Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania.  Adopted by Voice Vote.

Executive Session

Nominations to Various Boards and Commissions.  Confirmed:  47-0.