The bill amends the Iowa Code to enhance the responsibilities of the Department of Education and school districts in managing the discipline of students exhibiting disorderly conduct, particularly those with individualized education programs (IEPs). It introduces a new subsection that requires the Department to develop training materials for IEP team members focused on the least restrictive environment as mandated by federal law. Additionally, a new section (279.65B) is established to define disorderly conduct and outline the procedures for teachers to exclude students from the classroom, which includes a requirement for a meeting between the teacher and principal prior to a student's readmission. The bill also mandates the creation of oversight committees within school districts to develop policies for student readmission after exclusion.

Moreover, the legislation emphasizes collaboration among educators in addressing the needs of students with IEPs, requiring that all relevant staff be informed of their responsibilities regarding IEPs and Section 504 plans. It also protects teachers from disciplinary actions when they exercise their rights related to student exclusions and outlines processes for addressing injuries caused by student conduct. The bill further mandates that IEP meetings include knowledgeable individuals and encourages scheduling during normal business hours. It requires school district boards to provide training for IEP team members and amends professional development plans to ensure they support teachers in serving students with disabilities, with costs covered by state school foundation aid.

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