This bill amends various provisions related to student discipline in Minnesota, specifically targeting the dismissal policies for pupils in early education and elementary grades. It prohibits dismissals for pupils enrolled in preschool programs and kindergarten through grade 3, except under specific circumstances. The bill introduces a new provision that allows for dismissals of up to three school days for students in kindergarten through grade 3, while also emphasizing that dismissals should only occur after exhausting available resources. Additionally, it mandates that schools must provide alternative educational services before dismissing a pupil, unless there is an immediate danger posed by the pupil.

Furthermore, the bill repeals certain existing statutes related to nonexclusionary discipline and recess detention, which previously outlined specific practices and conditions under which students could be excluded from recess. The new language emphasizes the need for schools to establish uniform criteria for dismissals and to ensure that students continue to receive educational support during dismissal periods. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 121A.425, 121A.45, 121A.55