School Discipline For Preschool Through Second Grade

The bill allows a state-funded, community-based preschool program, school district, or charter school (enrolling entity) to impose an out-of-school suspension or expel a student enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, or first or second grade only under specified circumstances. If the enrolling entity imposes an out-of-school suspension, the length of the suspension is limited to 3 school days unless the executive officer or chief administrative officer of the enrolling entity determines that a longer period is necessary to resolve the safety threat or recommends that the student be expelled. The state board of education (state board) cannot waive the provisions concerning suspension and expulsion of young students for school districts or charter schools. Each school district and charter school must ensure that its school discipline code reflects the requirements specified in the bill. The state board must annually review the data concerning suspensions and expulsions of students in preschool, kindergarten, and first and second grade. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.) Read More