Assembly Bill 678 mandates that each school board in Wisconsin adopt a policy regarding appropriate communication between school district employees or volunteers and pupils by July 1, 2026. This policy must encompass communications with pupils enrolled in the school district, those attending schools not under the control of the school board, and homeschooled pupils. The bill stipulates that the policy must outline specific consequences for employees or volunteers who violate it, and it must apply to communications occurring both during and outside of school hours. Additionally, the policy is required to establish standards for appropriate content and methods of communication.
The bill amends existing statutes by adding a new section, 120.12 (30), which details the requirements for the communication policy. It also modifies section 119.04 (1) to include this new provision. The intent of the bill is to ensure that there are clear guidelines and standards for interactions between school personnel and students, thereby promoting a safe and respectful educational environment.