This bill modifies the duties of the state board of education regarding the approval of alternative school year schedules and reduces the minimum number of class days required for public schools in Wyoming. Specifically, it allows school districts to request to start the school year after Labor Day and to recess before Memorial Day, with the stipulation that the minimum number of school days is reduced from 175 to 165 days. Additionally, the bill mandates that each school district must hold at least two public meetings to discuss any proposed alternative schedules before submission to the state board. The state board is also tasked with establishing minimum pupil-teacher contact time requirements, which may include virtual education.

Furthermore, the bill changes the eligibility criteria for districts to share in the distribution of funds from the foundation account, reducing the required operational days from 185 to 170 days or the equivalent under an approved alternative schedule. Importantly, the bill ensures that no teacher's salary will be decreased as a result of these changes. The modifications will take effect in the 2026-2027 school year, with the act itself becoming effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-2-304, 21-4-301, 21-13-307