As students get back to school, there are some new laws that will impact the new school year. Here’s a run-down…
- Cursive writing requirement: Senate Bill 167 requires cursive writing instruction in elementary schools.
- New truancy rules: Under House Bill 611, school officials will have to file complaints with county attorneys when a student misses 15 or more days of school without an excuse. Parents would be held responsible for elementary school students.
- No vaping: House Bill 142, aimed at curbing vaping in schools, bans all tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products in public schools. School districts are also required to adopt disciplinary procedures for students who violate the ban.
- Relaxed substitute teachers rules: House Bill 387 allows the state to issue one-year emergency certificates for substitute teachers who have only earned a high school diploma or GED.
- AED requirement: Districts are required to maintain automated external defibrillators in all school buildings, including elementary schools. House Bill 169 also requires an annual report submitted to the state education department proving compliance.
- Boards of education: House Bill 449 allows school board members to be removed if convicted of a felony, committed an act of malfeasance while performing their duties, or misappropriating public funds or property.