TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas State Department of Education staff briefed the State Board of Education on Nov. 13 about a federal waiver application intended to align federal Title/ESEA identification and supports with the state’s KISA school‑improvement model.

Dr. Renee Nugent, who led the presentation, said the waiver seeks three primary changes: delay new federal identifications (CSI, TSI, ATSI), delay exits for schools already identified so supports can continue, and extend the allowable use of federal improvement funds for identified schools while the state pilots new interventions. "The goal of our waiver truly is to work on that alignment of all of our systems," Nugent said, describing the effort as an attempt to reduce duplication and administrative burden for districts.

Nugent provided approximate counts from department reviews: about 149 schools had been engaged in the department’s review process; roughly 17 of those schools could meet exit criteria; 23 would have been newly identified under federal rules; and 95% of currently identified schools had been identified in prior cohorts. Nugent said the department has contacted identified schools, invited newly eligible schools to join a pilot, and intends to continue professional development and technical assistance during the pause.

Board members pressed staff on whether the waiver would change statewide assessments or affect parents who opt out of state testing. Nugent and other staff clarified the waiver is focused on Title/ESEA identification and supports — not on changing assessment policy — and that parental opt‑outs would continue to be honored. Members also requested clearer communication plans for families if the waiver is approved.

The board did not take action on the waiver at the meeting; staff said they would inform the board if the waiver is accepted and return with additional details and next steps.