I will soon be introducing legislation to amend the Public School Code by updating Section 520.1 to provide school districts with enhanced flexibility during declared emergencies.

This proposal allows school boards, with approval from the Secretary of Education, to implement temporary emergency provisions and empowers school boards to declare an emergency if the annual General Appropriations Act is not enacted within 60 days of the fiscal year’s start. Specifically, the bill authorizes districts to:

• Adjust the number of instructional days per week;
• Reduce daily instructional hours;
• Transition students to full or partial virtual learning;

Importantly, districts utilizing these provisions will retain eligibility for state reimbursements. The bill provides local control and flexibility to be able to navigate school operations during emergencies and budget impasses.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to ensure our public schools can respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies while maintaining educational continuity.