Kansas House Bill HB2224

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Increasing the number of school days and hours that must be provided by school districts for each school year.

Impact

The passage of HB 2224 is expected to impact existing laws concerning the length of the academic year and the governance of school scheduling. By enforcing more stringent attendance requirements, the bill aims to recognize and address issues related to student performance and readiness. Proponents argue that these additional school days will provide necessary instructional time, particularly for students requiring extra support. Consequently, the bill may lead to an overall increase in educational standards within the state's public school system and more structured intervention strategies for students struggling academically.

Summary

House Bill 2224 aims to increase the number of school days and hours required for public school districts in Kansas for each academic year. Specifically, the bill mandates that students in kindergarten through grade 11 must attend a minimum of 186 school days, while grade 12 students must complete at least 181 days. Additionally, it stipulates that schools can offer programs extending beyond the regular school schedule for remedial education or disciplinary purposes. This change is intended to enhance education quality and student learning time, reflecting a broader commitment to improved educational outcomes across the state.

Contention

One of the major points of contention surrounding HB 2224 involves its implications for local school districts' autonomy. Critics argue that enforcing a standardized increase in school days and hours may not account for the diverse needs and circumstances of different communities. Concerns have been raised that this mandate could strain resources in some districts, particularly those already facing budgetary constraints, potentially leading to further disparities in educational quality. Additionally, the bill's provisions related to inclement weather closures may create challenges in maintaining sufficient instructional days, prompting debates about flexibility and local decision-making authority.