Substitute Bill No. 5348 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that addresses various aspects of the role and qualifications of paraeducators (formerly known as "school paraprofessionals") in the education system. The bill sets new hiring standards for paraeducators, requiring them to have a secondary school diploma or equivalent, and either two years of higher education study, an associate degree, or a satisfactory score on a paraeducator assessment. It also mandates the development of training programs for paraeducators and educators, particularly those working with special education students aged fourteen or older, and outlines the rights of parents and guardians in the special education planning process, including the right to have a paraeducator present during meetings and to receive information in their primary language.

The bill further revises policies on the administration of medication in schools, allowing paraeducators to administer medication under certain conditions and with appropriate training. It also updates the in-service training program requirements for school personnel, covering a wide range of topics, and allows paraeducators to voluntarily participate in these programs. Additionally, the bill addresses the classification and improvement of low achieving schools, the administration of opioid antagonists, and the training for the physical restraint and seclusion of students. The term "paraprofessional" is consistently replaced with "paraeducator" throughout the bill, which also includes provisions for health benefits and a minimum annual salary for paraeducators. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2024, with various sections having different effective dates.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-155j, 10-155k, 10-212a, 10-221u, 31-51rr
ED Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 10-155j, 10-155k, 10-212a, 10-221u, 31-51rr