This bill amends the Revised School Code of 1976, specifically section 1310d, to establish new requirements for school boards and administrators when considering the suspension or expulsion of a pupil. It mandates that before taking such actions, they must consider various factors, including the pupil's age, disciplinary history, disability status, the seriousness of the violation, and whether restorative practices could be applied. Notably, the bill introduces additional considerations for pupils who are homeless or have experienced adverse childhood events, trauma, or toxic stress. The language changes from "shall" to "must" emphasize the mandatory nature of these considerations.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates that for suspensions exceeding 10 days or expulsions, a hearing must be held, and specific notifications must be provided to the pupil and their guardians regarding the disciplinary complaint, hearing details, and their rights. The bill also clarifies definitions related to expulsion and suspension, and it includes provisions for protecting pupil privacy in documentation. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of two other specified bills in the legislature.
Statutes affected: Senate Introduced Bill: 380.1310