This bill amends W.S. 21-4-301 to ensure that public schools in Wyoming are equally free and accessible to all children, specifically including those attending on a part-time basis. The amendment clarifies that children who are five years old by August 1 (or September 15 under certain conditions) and under the age of twenty-one are eligible for enrollment. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for school districts to operate for a minimum of 175 days each school year unless an alternative schedule is approved by the state board, which must involve public meetings for community input.

The bill also allows parents or guardians of eligible children to apply for the Education Savings Account (ESA) program on behalf of their child. The changes outlined in this act will take effect for the school year 2026-2027 and will continue to apply in subsequent years, with the overall effective date set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0198 v1.0: 21-4-301