Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas House Bill HB2658

Introduced

2/1/24

Refer

2/1/24

Failed

4/30/24

Caption

Authorizing school districts to require a student to attend virtual school when such student is returning to school after having been expelled.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2658 signifies a shift in how schools handle serious disciplinary issues, particularly in relation to student safety and educational continuity. By allowing school boards to mandate virtual schooling for expelled students, the law aims to mitigate the risks associated with reintegrating potentially disruptive students into physical classrooms. This could lead to broader discussions on educational policies and the effectiveness of virtual learning environments as alternatives to traditional schooling, especially following extreme disciplinary measures.

Summary

House Bill 2658 establishes guidelines for school districts in Kansas addressing student behavior and safety. Specifically, it authorizes school boards to require students who return to school after an expulsion lasting 186 days or more to attend a virtual school. This law is intended to ensure that students who have engaged in serious misconduct, such as violence or possession of weapons, can reintegrate into the educational environment in a controlled manner while still receiving an education. The accountability of students returning from severe disciplinary actions is central to the bill, aiming to provide a structured path back to traditional schooling.

Contention

While supporters may argue that the bill is a necessary tool for ensuring school safety and upholding educational standards, critics could raise concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of such measures. Potential points of contention might include the adequacy of virtual schooling in meeting educational needs and whether it could be interpreted as a punitive measure rather than a rehabilitative approach. The bil's reliance on virtual schooling may also ignite discussions on resource allocation, especially for districts lacking robust virtual education programs, and equitable access for all students. Due process provisions outlined in the bill attempt to address potential disputes regarding expulsion decisions and the consequent virtual schooling requirement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS SB485

Authorizing students attending public schools with low proficiency scores and certain private elementary and secondary school students to participate in the tax credit for low income students scholarship program.

KS SB543

Allows students in school districts attending a four-day school week to transfer to an adjoining district where students attend a five-day school week

KS HB2514

Revising school district open enrollment procedures and requirements to prioritize students who are residents of Kansas over students who are residents of another state, providing for continued enrollment of students who attended a school district of nonresidence in school year 2023-2024, authorizing school districts to deem students as not in good standing prior to enrollment and requiring publication of nonresident student transfer policies on the school district website.

KS HB2506

Authorizing students enrolled in virtual schools to participate in activities that are regulated by the Kansas state high school activities association at such student’s resident school district without a minimum enrollment requirement in such resident school district.

KS HB2718

Eliminating school district open enrollment requirements and authorizing school districts to determine nonresident student enrollment.

KS SB475