This bill mandates that boards of directors of school districts, authorities overseeing accredited nonpublic schools, and governing boards of charter schools establish policies to excuse absences for students in grades six through twelve participating in civic or political events. Each school district and accredited nonpublic school must grant at least one excused absence per school year for such participation, provided that students notify the relevant school administrator at least 24 hours in advance. The bill outlines specific civic or political events that qualify for excused absences, including voting, serving as a poll worker, attending governmental meetings, and participating in political rallies or forums.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that absences related to civic or political events, as defined in the new policy, do not count towards chronic absenteeism. This means that students' participation in these events will not negatively impact their attendance records or be considered truancy. The bill aims to encourage civic engagement among students while ensuring that their educational responsibilities are balanced with their rights to participate in democratic processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.7, 299.1, 299.12