The bill establishes new requirements for K-12 public school student discipline in Wyoming, mandating that school district boards of trustees adopt specific rules and policies. It introduces definitions for terms such as "classroom removal" and "temporary classroom referral," and requires these policies to include procedures for enforcing discipline, addressing disruptive behavior, and ensuring parental notification. Notably, the bill repeals the immunity previously granted to educators for corporal punishment, highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment while safeguarding students' rights.
Furthermore, the bill expands the responsibilities of the Department of Education, which must develop a model policy for compliance and provide technical assistance to school districts. It mandates annual reporting on major disciplinary actions, including classroom removals and suspensions, to promote transparency. The Department is also required to submit annual reports to the Joint Education Interim Committee starting August 15, 2028, and a comprehensive evaluation report by December 1, 2030, assessing the implementation of the act and recommending any necessary modifications to existing law. The new policies must be adopted by school districts by August 1, 2027, with ongoing reporting requirements extending through 2030.
Statutes affected: 27LSO-0128 v0.6: 21-4-308