Established as part of the Fiscal Year 2019 state budget,
the 11-member commission will be responsible for developing recommendations for
improving transportation services for students attending regional schools, out
of district vocational and technical schools, and out of district agricultural
schools, as well as students in special education out of district placements.
In announcing the appointment, Representative Jones cited
Representative Hill’s ongoing advocacy in support of public education funding,
particularly for regional school transportation. Representative Hill’s efforts helped secure a
$68.88 million appropriation in this year’s state budget to reimburse
communities for student transportation expenses, which represents a 12%
increase in funding over last year.
“Brad has been leading the fight to deliver additional relief
to cities and towns to help them pay for their student transportation costs,”
said Representative Jones. “I am
confident he will do a tremendous job helping the special commission to identify
ways for school districts to improve transportation services and reduce costs.”
Representative Hill is one of four legislators serving on
the commission, which will also include representatives from the Massachusetts
Association of Regional Schools, Inc.; the Massachusetts Association of School
Committees, Inc.; the Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials,
Inc.; the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, Inc.; and the Massachusetts
Association of Special Education Administrators. The final two commission members will be
appointed by Education Secretary James Peyser and Elementary and Secondary
Education Commissioner Jeffrey Riley.
The commission is required to hold a minimum of five public
hearings, and is expected to file a report with its recommendations by December
1, 2019.
Representative Hill currently serves as the Assistant
Minority Leader of the House of Representatives. He represents the Fourth Essex District,
which includes the towns of Hamilton; Ipswich; Manchester-by-the-Sea; Rowley;
Topsfield; and Wenham.
