TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) -- Kansas lawmakers are debating legislation to create 10 innovative school districts that would be exempt from many state rules and regulations in exchange for improving student achievement.

The House gave first-round approval to its bill Thursday after debate over exempting the 10 districts from many laws governing teacher contract negotiations and due process.

The districts would be chosen from a pool of applicants.

Proponents say the bill will give the districts the freedom to make decisions on student programs and organization that will encourage innovative approaches to learning.

Opponents contend Kansas already has a strong public school system. They argue the proposed exemptions from rules and regulations would remove some protections for teachers and make it harder to attract qualified educators.

A similar bill is pending in the Senate.