This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 121A.425, to modify the rules surrounding disciplinary dismissals for students in early learning programs, specifically those enrolled in preschool through grade 3. The bill removes the prohibition on dismissals for these students, allowing for dismissals in accordance with the new provisions. It clarifies that dismissals for less than one school day are not included, except for special education students as outlined in existing laws. Additionally, the bill eliminates previous language that restricted expulsions and exclusions, now allowing these actions only after exhausting nonexclusionary discipline methods and only in cases of ongoing serious safety threats.

The bill introduces new subdivisions that outline the requirements for suspensions, exclusions, and expulsions. A pupil may only be suspended if there is a serious safety threat and after nonexclusionary discipline methods have been attempted. The same conditions apply for expulsions and exclusions, which must also follow procedural requirements specified in other sections of the law. The changes are set to take effect for the 2026-2027 school year and later, emphasizing a focus on nonexclusionary discipline strategies before resorting to more severe disciplinary actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 121A.425