KRS 158.818: Evidence-based instructional models to address needs of at -risk students --

Focus -- Components -- Training for high school teachers -- Incorporation into

existing programs.

(1) If funds are appropriated for the purposes of funding evidence -based instructional

models or if internal state or federal funds are available, the Kentucky Department

of Education, in collaboration with the Kentucky Community and Technical

College System, the Education Professional Standards Board, and other appropriate

educational entities, shall recommend evidence -based models for addressing the

needs of at-risk students.

(2) The evidence-based models shall include a variety of programs and curricula proven

to be effective for at-risk students, and shall focus on:

(a) Identification of students at risk for inadequate academic preparation for the

next grade level or at risk for dropping out of school;

(b) Reduction in the number of students retained in grade nine (9) and reduction

of high school failure rates;

(c) Improvement of student performance through grade-level standards in reading

and mathematics with an emphasis on grade nine (9);

(d) Assistance to students and their parents or legal guardians in identifying

students' career and educational goals, developing individual learning plans,

and the appropriate programs of study to achieve these goals; and

(e) Assistance to adult students in obtaining a high school diploma or a

recognized postsecondary education credential that has value in the

workplace.

(3) The evidence -based models shall include the following components designed to

facilitate more students having a successful start in high school and successfully

completing grade nine (9) requirements:

(a) The use of flexible scheduling as appropriate to increase students' t ime in the

study of core language arts and mathematics;

(b) The assignment of the most effective teachers as leaders for instructional

teams in grade nine (9) to improve instructional planning, delivery of

instruction, and the use of reteaching strategies;

(c) The assignment of mentors to teach students study skills and habits necessary

to become independent learners and, when possible, the use of career guidance

coaches to advise students; and

(d) Career courses, including career exploration, in grade nine (9) to incorporate

project-based instruction that requires the application of grade nine (9) level

reading, mathematics, and science skills and that uses a wide variety of

technology.

(4) (a) If state or federal funds are available, all career and technic al education

teachers who teach high school students shall receive training in how to

embed reading, mathematics, and science knowledge and skills in specific

career and technical education courses.

(b) Training required under paragraph (a) of this subsection may be provided by

local school districts or postsecondary education institutions, including

community and technical colleges, and outside providers that have a record of

working effectively with schools in redesigning the ninth grade.

(5) Career and technical education teachers shall provide evidence through the courses

they teach that the students' academic achievement is increased as defined by

administrative regulations promulgated by the Kentucky Board of Education and

developed in collaboration with the Kentucky Community and Technical College

System.

(6) The evidence -based models shall be incorporated into career and technical

education programs, career academies, and career pathway programs of study

developed under KRS 157.072.