HB 596

Enacts GS 115C-81.6, establishing a twenty-member Standard Course of Study (SCOS) Advisory Commission (Commission), located administratively in the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) but that exercises its powers and duties independently thereof and whose purpose is to involve stakeholders in establishing the standard course of study. Requires the Commission to make recommendations regarding all aspects of the standards and competencies of the standard course of study. Sets forth three duties: (1) develop and recommend the SCOS to the State Board of Education (Board); (2) develop support materials for teachers and parents, upon approval by the Board; and (3) provide recommendations as request to the Board related to the alignment of State programs and support materials with the revised academic content standards for each core academic area. Provides for membership and appointment process (including appointment of 6 members by the General Assembly upon recommendation of the President Pro Tempore, six upon recommendation by the Speaker of the House, and six upon appointment by the Governor), meetings, and staff to assist the Commission in its work assigned by the Superintendent of DPI. Provides for four-year terms and for filling vacancies. Requires that the terms for the appointments that are made by the General Assembly begin July 1, 2025, and specifies which of those members will be appointed for two years and which for four-year terms. Requires election of a chair, vice-chair, and secretary from among its members. Specifies quorum is a majority of Commission members. Requires the Commission to adopt rules to govern its proceedings. Provides for members to be compensated for their services and reimbursement for expenses.