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. It introduces a new 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 possibility of aligning registration for virtual instruction with the school district's course registration schedule, and ensuring that students meet prerequisites for sequential virtual courses. Furthermore, it mandates that school districts must cover the costs of virtual courses that are not offered by the district but are necessary for students to meet graduation requirements.

The bill also stipulates that the superintendent of public instruction must provide an annual report comparing the academic performance of students in virtual instruction with those not participating. This report is to be submitted to the legislative assembly in odd-numbered years and to the legislative management in even-numbered years. If the superintendent lacks access to performance reports due to small subgroup sizes, the school district is required to provide the necessary data for comparison. Lastly, it clarifies that students enrolled in approved virtual schools do not generate school district sized weighting factors, which affects funding calculations.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 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
PREFILED: 15.1-07-25.4