Senate Bill No. introduced by R. Tempel aims to revise education laws to reinforce a teacher's authority in maintaining a positive classroom environment. The bill requires school district trustees to adopt policies affirming this authority, specifically in districts with at least a half-time principal. It allows teachers to temporarily exclude students from the classroom if their behavior disrupts teaching or learning, with a maximum exclusion period of 24 hours. A return plan must be communicated to the teacher by the principal or their designee before the student can return to class.
The bill also emphasizes that the policies adopted by school districts must not contradict due process rights for students or the requirements of various federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, it outlines that students who do not comply with the return plan or continue to disrupt the learning process may face further disciplinary actions, including suspension or expulsion, in accordance with district policies. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to school years beginning on or after that date.