The bill amends the Revised School Code to improve the suspension and expulsion processes for students, particularly those with disabilities. It introduces new requirements for school boards and administrators to consider factors such as the pupil's age, disciplinary history, and the potential for restorative practices before taking disciplinary actions. A rebuttable presumption against suspension or expulsion is established unless the board can demonstrate that these factors were considered. For students with disabilities, a functional behavioral assessment and behavior intervention plan must be completed prior to any suspension exceeding ten days or expulsion. Additionally, the bill mandates investigations into the behavior of students with disabilities who possess firearms in weapon-free school zones, ensuring that their actions are evaluated in the context of their disabilities.

The bill also revises laws related to the reinstatement of expelled students and the professional development requirements for teachers. It allows school boards to require written agreements from students and their guardians regarding conditions for reinstatement, such as behavior contracts and counseling participation. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of special education training for educators, mandating that teacher preparation programs include specific instruction on disabilities and behavioral interventions. The bill establishes a complaint procedure for reporting violations of special education laws and requires school districts to report data on students with disabilities, including suspension and expulsion rates, while creating a publicly accessible dashboard for this information. Overall, the bill aims to foster a more equitable and supportive educational environment for students with disabilities while ensuring compliance with legal standards.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 380.1310