This bill amends existing law to allow parents or guardians to transfer their children to other public schools, public academies, or approved private schools within their resident district, provided that these schools have the capacity to accommodate the student. The previous requirement that parents must demonstrate that a transfer is in the best interest of the student has been removed. Instead, the bill stipulates that parents can apply for a transfer to a school outside the district as well, unless the student is facing a manifest educational hardship. Applications for transfers must be submitted by July 1 for the upcoming school year, and the superintendent is required to approve requests for transfers within the district if the school can accommodate the student.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for handling transfer requests, including scheduling meetings with parents and considering the student's needs. If a transfer is approved, the superintendent will initiate the necessary changes, and tuition arrangements will be established for transfers to schools outside the district. The bill also mandates that school boards adopt policies to manage situations where transfer requests exceed available capacity. Overall, the changes aim to streamline the transfer process and provide more flexibility for parents seeking educational options for their children. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 193:3
As Amended by the Senate: 193:3
As Amended by the House: 193:3
Version adopted by both bodies: 193:3
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 193:3