Senate File 2428 introduces significant modifications to the responsibilities of the Department of Education and the management of student discipline within school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools. The bill mandates the Department to develop and distribute training materials for members of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, focusing on compliance with the least restrictive environment requirements under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Additionally, it establishes a pilot program that requires both a rural and an urban school district to create attendance centers to provide educational services to eligible students, including those needing special education, contingent upon funding agreements.

The bill also outlines new disciplinary procedures for managing classroom disruptions, detailing the roles of teachers and principals in addressing both violent and nonviolent incidents. It emphasizes the establishment of oversight committees within school districts to develop policies for student readmission after disciplinary actions, ensuring that students with IEPs have their educational programming reviewed following any exclusion. Furthermore, it enhances the authority of teachers to convene IEP team meetings and mandates that all relevant school district employees have access to IEP details and responsibilities. The bill also highlights the necessity for professional development plans focused on serving students with disabilities and provides immediate mental health support following violent disruptions, along with a leave of absence for injured teachers. Overall, Senate File 2428 aims to create a more supportive educational environment for students with special needs and their educators.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 279.65A
Reprinted: 256.9, 279.65A
Enrolled: 256.9, 256.11, 256E.7, 279.65B