This bill amends Section 3-104.4 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the accreditation standards for public schools. It introduces new provisions that require the State Board of Education to establish standards that include deficiencies, warnings, probation, or nonaccredited status for schools that fail to meet one or more of the accreditation standards. Additionally, the bill clarifies that school districts have the right to request a hearing regarding accreditation recommendations, with specific notice and timeline requirements for such requests. The State Department of Education is tasked with investigating complaints related to educational services and compliance with accreditation standards, and it must report findings to the State Board of Education.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that the State Board of Education promulgate rules regarding the notice and hearing process for accreditation status. It also stipulates that if a school district does not comply with accreditation standards within a specified timeframe, the Board may withdraw accreditation. The bill emphasizes the importance of providing educational services in various programs and includes provisions for assistance to schools at risk of losing accreditation. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2025, and it declares an emergency for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.