(AP) — Underperforming schools will soon be aided by a state intervention team, under a bill signed into law this week.

Gov. Dave Heineman signed the bill Wednesday. The new law allows the State Board of Education to designate up to three “priority schools” at a time that will receive an intervention team to help the school address issues affecting student achievement.

Speaker of the Legislature Greg Adams, who introduced the bill, says it’s not about punishing schools. He says the state can’t stand back anymore and hope schools fix their problems.

Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matthew Blomstedt says the intervention teams could help by providing special services for students.