The proposed bill HB2218 amends Arizona law to prohibit charter schools and school districts from suspending students for unexcused absences or excessive absenteeism. Currently, excessive absenteeism can lead to penalties, including suspension or expulsion, as determined by school governing boards. The new bill explicitly states that suspension cannot be used as a penalty for absenteeism, thereby removing this disciplinary action from the consequences of such behavior. Additionally, it mandates that governing boards cannot base suspension solely on a student's absenteeism, contrasting with existing provisions that allow for such penalties.

The bill also introduces technical changes, such as replacing the term "pupil" with "student" for modern terminology and clarifying that penalties for absenteeism cannot include suspension. It maintains the requirement for school districts to develop rules for student discipline that align with constitutional rights and emphasizes parental notification and consent regarding disciplinary actions. Overall, the bill aims to foster a more supportive and equitable approach to student discipline, ensuring that disciplinary measures are not solely reliant on absenteeism.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-186.02, 15-843
House Engrossed Version: 15-186.02, 15-843