The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979, specifically section 166b, to clarify the enrollment options for minors who are either homeschooled or enrolled in nonpublic schools. It allows parents or legal guardians to enroll their children in district curricular offerings, including those provided at public school sites, while ensuring that state school aid is available for certain curricular offerings. The bill specifies that state aid will only be provided for courses that are available to full-time pupils and that meet specific criteria, including being taught by certified teachers and being registered with the state.
Key changes include the removal of language that previously restricted enrollment to nonessential elective courses and the addition of provisions that allow for more flexibility in how instruction is provided. The bill also emphasizes the importance of compliance with safety regulations for individuals who interact with students and requires districts to respond to requests for instruction within specified timeframes. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance educational opportunities for students in nonpublic and homeschooling settings while maintaining accountability and safety standards.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 388.1766