The bill amends section 15.1-07-25.4 of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the policies surrounding virtual learning in school districts. Notably, it introduces a provision that prohibits resident school districts from denying open enrollment to approved virtual schools. Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for school district policies regarding virtual instruction, including compliance with rules set by the superintendent of public instruction, the potential for registration to align with course schedules, and the necessity for districts to cover costs for virtual courses that are not offered in-house but are essential for students to meet graduation requirements.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the superintendent of public instruction provide an annual report comparing the academic performance of students engaged in virtual instruction with those who are not. This report is to be submitted to the legislative assembly in odd-numbered years and to the legislative management in even-numbered years. The bill also clarifies that students enrolled in approved virtual schools will not generate school district sized weighting factors, ensuring that the funding structure reflects their unique educational setting.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 15.1-07-25.4
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Jonas: 15.1-07-25.4
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15.1-07-25.4
Enrollment: 15.1-07-25.4
INTRODUCED: 15.1-07-25.4