The bill modifies existing provisions related to compulsory education, truancy, and chronic absenteeism in Iowa. It mandates the director of the Department of Education to develop a model policy, in consultation with the Iowa County Attorneys Association, for county attorneys to reference when enforcing the provisions of Code chapter 299. This model policy will be distributed to county attorneys, school districts, and accredited nonpublic schools. Additionally, the bill expands the list of exceptions for absences that do not count towards truancy to include military entrance processing, military service, and travel for funerals or weddings. It also requires that school policies describe how these exceptions can be met and consider travel time.

Furthermore, the bill updates the notification process for chronic absenteeism. It allows school officials to send notices regarding a child's absences via ordinary mail, electronic mail, or in person, rather than requiring certified mail. The bill also stipulates that a school must maintain a copy of the notice until the child graduates, turns 21, or is no longer enrolled. Lastly, it modifies the requirement for school engagement meetings, stating that such meetings should only be initiated if a school official determines that the child's absences are negatively affecting their academic progress.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 299.1, 299.12