Substitute Bill No. 5468 amends Section 10-184 of the general statutes to clarify educational requirements for children aged five to under eighteen. It introduces the term "equivalent instruction," which allows education provided by parents or guardians outside of traditional public or nonpublic schools. The bill mandates that parents or guardians must ensure their children are either enrolled in public school, attending a nonpublic school, or receiving equivalent instruction, and they must sign an "intent to educate" form at the school district office. Key changes include the removal of provisions allowing withdrawal from school at age seventeen and the introduction of new requirements for parents to formally indicate their educational choice starting from the school year commencing July 1, 2028.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for children receiving equivalent instruction, including the submission of a continuation form by September 1 each year and the requirement for evidence of enrollment if attending a nonpublic school. It also allows children receiving equivalent instruction to participate in public school activities, with specific stipulations regarding their status as part-time students. The bill modifies the definition of "resident students" to include those receiving equivalent instruction and mandates data collection on their participation in public school activities. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for the disclosure of child welfare records, balancing confidentiality with the need for safety, and enhances the processes for determining the suitability of individuals involved in child care services.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-184
ED Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-184
File No. 420: 10-184
APP Joint Favorable: 10-184