This bill amends the Private Academic Schools Act of January 28, 1988, to update the application process for licensing private academic schools in Pennsylvania. Key changes include allowing applicants to submit their applications before securing a physical facility, provided they include a planning statement that outlines the school site under consideration, a timeline for finalizing the lease or sale, and a contingency plan. Additionally, applicants can now include staffing projections and identify proposed teachers and staff who meet qualification requirements, which they intend to hire upon receiving licensure.

The bill also introduces a provision for conditional approval of initial licensure, allowing the State Board of Private Academic Schools to grant provisional licenses for up to six months if the application substantially complies with the act but certain components are still pending. Furthermore, the board is tasked with promulgating new rules and regulations regarding the qualifications of teachers and staff within 180 days of the bill's effective date. Notably, the previous limitation that rules and regulations remain in effect for no more than one year has been removed, allowing for greater flexibility in the regulatory process. The act is set to take effect in 60 days.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2132 (Jul 14, 2025): P.L.24, No.11