Education Bills to Be Read This Week 3/5, Updated 3/7

Bills That Are of Concern

HB1315 – School corporation financial management. Read more here and here and here and act here.  *PASSED. Moves on to committee. 

SB33 - Houses of worship and firearms. Currently stalled, but something to watch closely as it could reappear. It has 19 amendments to it, including banning bump stocks. Read more here and here. 

SB387 - Teacher Licensing. Provides that at least 90% of the individuals who teach full time in a public school must hold a license or be in the process of obtaining a transition to teaching license. *PASSED. Moves on to committee.

MONDAY

Bills to Be Read by the House on March 5 at 10:00 a.m.
 
SB50 Third reading passed; Roll Call 312: yeas 96, nays 0
Workforce development; career and technical education. Establishes the college and career funding review committee. Requires the review committee to study certain issues and to submit a report to the governor and the legislative council. Establishes the governor's workforce cabinet to develop, not later than July 1, 2018, a comprehensive career navigation and coaching system for Indiana. Requires high schools maintained by a school corporation, a charter school, or an accredited nonpublic school to participate in the career coaching program. Requires at least 25% of the money appropriated by the general assembly for adult education or the work Indiana program to be used: (1) to reimburse an eligible provider for adult education that is provided to eligible employees who need education in basic skills or that is necessary for an eligible employee to receive a high school diploma or an Indiana high school equivalency diploma; or (2) for adult education grants to employers. Specifies criteria that an individual must meet to be an eligible employee. Establishes the next level jobs employer training grant program and specifies criteria to receive a grant. Provides limits on the grant amount per employee and per employer. Requires the legislative services agency to conduct a review, analysis, and evaluation of the twenty-first century scholars program and the Frank O'Bannon grant program and submit a report to the governor and the legislative council. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the question of whether the state should submit a combined state plan instead of a unified state plan to the United States Department of Labor when the state submits a new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act plan. 
 
SB43 Third reading: passed; Roll Call 301: yeas 91, nays 0
Racial balance levy and fund. Repeals provisions regarding the racial balance levy and the racial balance fund. Provides that any money in a school corporation's racial balance fund on January 1, 2019, must be transferred to the school corporation's operations fund.
 
SB172 Third reading: passed; Roll Call 306: yeas 94, nays 0
Computer science. Establishes the next level computer science grant program (program) and the next level computer science fund (fund) to award grants, after June 30, 2019, to eligible entities to implement teacher professional development programs for training in teaching computer science. Requires the department of education (department) to: (1) administer the program and fund; and (2) develop, in consultation with the governor's office, guidelines to award grants from the fund to eligible entities. Requires, not later than August 1, 2018, the state superintendent of public instruction to enter into a contract for professional development services. Requires the department to biannually submit a progress report to the governor regarding the: (1) development and administration of the program and fund; and (2) status of public schools in meeting computer science curriculum requirements. Provides that, if the department does not comply with the requirements regarding the program and fund, the state board of education shall assume the department's duties. Requires (beginning July 1, 2021) each public school to offer a computer science course as a one semester elective course in its curriculum at least once each school year to high school students. Requires (beginning July 1, 2021) each public school to include computer science in the public school's science curriculum for students in kindergarten through grade 12.
 
SB387 Third Reading: Roll Call 318: yeas 66, nays 29
Teacher Licensing. Provides that at least 90% of the individuals who teach full time in a public school must hold a license or be in the process of obtaining a transition to teaching license. Establishes eligibility requirements for a career specialist permit. Provides that, for school years beginning after June 30, 2018, a school corporation may provide a supplemental payment to a teacher in excess of the salary specified in the school corporation's compensation plan if the teacher: (1) is a special education professional; or (2) teaches in the areas of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Provides that the supplemental payment is not subject to collective bargaining but must be discussed. Requires the department of education (department to post on the department's Internet web site the pass rate of the content area examination for each postsecondary educational institution. Provides that the salary increase amount attributed to an individual factor can be differentiated among individual teachers as part of a teacher salary scale. Provides that an elementary teacher may be eligible for a supplemental payment if the teacher earns a master's degree in math, reading, or literacy. (Current law provides that an elementary teacher may be eligible for a supplemental payment if the teacher receives a master's degree in math or in reading and literacy.) Provides that, before September 1, 2018, the department shall issue a request for proposals for an educator licensing exam. Provides that the department shall prepare a report that includes: (1) a list and description of each examination available in Indiana that is or could be used for teacher licensing; (2) any reciprocity for teacher licensing that other states, if any, allow for each examination; (3) the pass rates in other states for each examination; and (4) whether the individual taking the examination is responsible for paying the cost of the examination.
 
Bills to Be Read by the Senate on March 5 at 1:30 p.m.

SR43 3/5/2018 - Pursuant to Senate Rule 35 (c); technical correction committee report adopted
A SENATE RESOLUTION urging the legislative council to assign to the appropriate study committee the topic of a comprehensive review of school safety issues with the goal to do whatever is necessary to protect Hoosier children in our schools.
 
HB1002 Second Reading:  amended, ordered engrossed
Workforce Funding and Programs. Requires an annual workforce related program review by the legislative services agency. Provides that the governor shall appoint a secretary of workforce training. Establishes the governor's workforce cabinet to develop, not later than July 1, 2018, a comprehensive career navigation and coaching system for Indiana and requires all high schools to participate in the career coaching program. Requires workforce and education information as part of the biennial budget report that is submitted to the governor and budget committee for preparation of the governor's proposed budget bill. Repeals the training 2000 program and fund effective July 1, 2019, and provides for the program phase out. Provides that an emancipated student or the parent of a student enrolled in a career or technical course may voluntarily release information, on a form prescribed by the department of education, pertaining to the student's enrollment in the career and technical education course to potential employers that contact the school to recruit students with particular career and technical skills. Requires the state board of education, when establishing an apprenticeship as a graduation pathway requirement, to establish as an apprenticeship program only an apprenticeship program registered under the federal National Apprenticeship Act or another federal apprenticeship program administered by the United States Department of Labor. Revises eligibility criteria for applicants for high value workforce ready credit-bearing grants, and provides that if the demand for high value workforce ready credit-bearing grants exceeds the appropriation, the commission for higher education shall prioritize applicants who are classified as independent. Specifies that an individual who is enrolled as a part-time postsecondary student, regardless of whether a part-time student is qualified to receive an adult student grant, may participate in the employment aid readiness network (EARN) Indiana program. Transforms Ivy Tech Community College's regional boards of trustees to campus boards of trustees. Provides that the number of members of the state board of trustees of Ivy Tech must equal the number of regions established by the state board of trustees plus one additional member, but shall not exceed 15 members. Establishes the next level jobs employer training grant program. <STRIKE>Makes certain changes in the requirements that apply to nurse faculty members. Specifies that these changes apply until June 30, 2021.</STRIKE> Specifies that certain requirements regarding educational qualifications of nursing faculty members do not apply from July 1, 2018, through June 30, 2024. Urges the legislative council to assign to a study committee the task of studying statutory and administrative barriers that may create disincentives that keep employers from establishing employer provided child care for their employees. Requires the family and social services administration and the Indiana department of transportation to perform a coordinated study on leveraging money for transportation to workforce related programs. Makes conforming amendments.
 
HB1315 Second Reading: amended, ordered engrossed
School corporation financial management. Allows the distressed unit appeal board (DUAB) to delegate board authority, duties, and responsibilities to the executive director by resolution of the board. Allows the DUAB to adopt rules. Requires the attorney general to represent a member of the fiscal management board, an emergency manager, a chief financial officer, or a chief academic officer if the individual requests the representation. Specifies restrictions on school corporations that are designated distressed. Specifies that waivers regarding the allocation of protected taxes apply only to distressed school corporations and not other distressed units. Provides that, for a period of two years following the termination of a political subdivision's distressed status, the political subdivision may not do any of the following without the prior approval of the DUAB: (1) Adopt a budget, tax levy, or tax rate. (2) Issue bonds. (3) Enter into a lease. Requires a political subdivision to submit certain reports to the DUAB for a period of four years following the termination of the political subdivision's distressed status. Authorizes the emergency manager of a distressed school corporation to cancel any employee's contract or terminate an employee's employment as part of a reduction in force. Provides that notification for a reduction in force of: (1) certificated employees may be delivered after September 30 and before November 1 of the contract year; and (2) noncertificated employees may be delivered at any time. Specifies that the maximum reduction in force of certificated employees under this provision may not exceed 5% of the full-time equivalency for all certificated employees in the certificated employee bargaining unit for the school corporation. Requires the emergency manager to provide any employee whose contract is being canceled with notice at least 90 days before the effective date of the cancellation. Provides that the governing body of a distressed school corporation (or the advisory board, in the case of Gary schools) may file a petition with the DUAB for termination of distressed status only if the school corporation's ongoing revenues exceed the school corporation's ongoing expenses. Specifies that the governing body or advisory board may file such a petition with the DUAB not more than one time in a 12 month period. Makes changes concerning the Gary Community school corporation and its operation. Converts the Gary Community school corporation's governing board to an advisory board. Provides that the advisory board may not hold a public meeting more often than once every three months. Provides that the advisory board may hold additional meetings that are authorized as executive sessions under the open door law. Specifies that the advisory board may vote to fill vacancies and select officers of the advisory board. Deletes from current law the requirements: (1) that the emergency manager for the Gary Community school corporation must consult with the fiscal management board and the governing body; and (2) that the emergency manager for the Gary Community school corporation must consult with the mayor, the fiscal management board, and the governing body when developing the school corporation's annual budget and developing a financial plan, and provides that the emergency manager shall consider any recommendations from these entities. Requires the chief financial officer and chief academic officer to submit a quarterly report the advisory board. Removes the laws concerning the Muncie Community school corporation being a fiscally impaired school corporation. Permits the Ball State University board of trustees to adopt a resolution to govern the Muncie Community school corporation using a newly appointed seven member governing board. Requires certain members of the governing body to reside in the Muncie Community school corporation district. Provides that in making the appointments to the governing body of the Muncie Community school corporation, the Ball State University board of trustees and the President of Ball State University shall strive to ensure that the members appointed to the governing body reflect the geographical and socioeconomic composition of the school district. Provides that the terms of office of the two members appointed by the President of Ball State University expire on June 30, 2022, and beginning July 1, 2022, two members of the board shall be individuals elected at-large. Requires the first elected members to be elected at the 2022 primary election. Specifies that the governing body serving on June 30, 2018, shall become on July 1, 2018, an advisory board to the governing body appointed by the President and board of trustees of Ball State University. Requires the governing body to engage academically innovative strategies. Specifies that only certain laws in IC 20 will apply to the Muncie Community school corporation. Specifies other conditions. Provides that during the period beginning July 1, 2018, and ending June 30, 2022, the DUAB shall provide financial support to the Muncie Community school corporation in an amount that does not exceed the amount of compensation that would have been provided to an emergency manager of the school corporation if the school corporation had retained the designation of a distressed political subdivision. Permits the DUAB to recommend to the state board of finance that the state board of finance make an interest free loan to the Muncie Community school corporation. Establishes a fiscal and qualitative indicators committee (committee) to make determinations about the fiscal and qualitative factors to be used in analyzing the financial condition of school corporations. Specifies certain factors that may be used. Requires the committee to make determinations about the presentation of the factors and the financial condition of school corporations to the public and the frequency of updates. Requires the DUAB to present school financial condition information on its Internet web site or the management performance hub Internet web site. Sets minimum standards for presenting the information. Requires the DUAB to determine the financial condition of each school corporation and whether a school corporation should be placed on a watch list. Requires the executive director of the DUAB to do the following: (1) Report to the state budget committee the process and procedures that will be used before a school corporation is placed on the watch list. (2) Prepare a report identifying each school corporation whose financial condition indicates the potential to be placed on the watch list. Provides that the DUAB may enter into an agreement with a school corporation to develop a corrective action plan. Requires the DUAB to meet in executive session for discussions and determinations related to placing a school corporation on the watch list. Specifies that the DUAB may make a determination to place a school corporation on the watch list only if the DUAB has, at least six months before making the determination, provided notice to the school corporation stating that the DUAB is considering making such a determination. Provides that before a school corporation is placed on a watch list, the school corporation shall be given an opportunity to meet with the DUAB and the DUAB executive director in executive session. Specifies that after the DUAB makes a determination to place the school corporation on the watch list, the school corporation may file an appeal with the DUAB and request removal from the watch list. Provides that until the DUAB has ruled on the appeal, the school corporation may not be placed on the watch list. Specifies that all correspondence and other records related to discussions and determinations concerning whether a school corporation should be placed on the watch list are confidential and not subject to public disclosure unless and until the school corporation is subsequently placed on the watch list. Specifies that if the DUAB finds that: (1) a determination has been provided by the state board of accounts specifying that a corrective action plan is appropriate for a school corporation; or (2) the fiscal and qualitative indicators indicate that a corrective action plan is appropriate for a school corporation; the DUAB shall initiate contact with the chairperson of the governing body and the superintendent of the school corporation and offer to provide technical assistance to the school corporation. Provides that the DUAB may form a technical assistance team. <STRIKE>Provides that the governing body of a school corporation in which 10% or more of the school buildings are occupied in whole or part by one or more innovation network schools or one or more innovation network charter schools may sell a closed, unused, or unoccupied school building without making the vacant school building available to a charter school. </STRIKE> Provides that the governing body of the Indianapolis Public Schools may sell a closed, unused, or unoccupied school building without making the vacant school building available to a charter school if certain conditions are satisfied. Amends the definition of "deficit financing" for a budget year to mean, in the case of any distressed school corporation, the Gary Community school corporation, or the Muncie Community school corporation: (1) actual expenditures; plus (2) additional payments against any outstanding debt obligations; exceeding the employer's current year actual education fund revenue. Provides that until June 30, 2018, the governing body of Gary schools, rather than the emergency manager, shall exercise the power to fill a vacancy on the governing body. Resolves conflicts. Makes technical corrections
 
HB1356 Second Reading: ordered engrossed
Bullying. Provides that a school corporation is not required to report the number of incidents of bullying in the school corporation's annual school performance report. Provides that information reported by a school corporation relating to the number of incidents of bullying that occur may not be used in calculation of a school's annual school improvement grade. Provides that the department of education (department) must annually send notification via electronic mail or a letter to each school corporation explaining: (1) the school corporation's obligation to submit a report to the department containing the number of bullying incidents involving a student; and (2) that the department may conduct an audit of the school corporation to ensure that bullying incidents are accurately reported. Provides that the department may conduct an audit of a school corporation to ensure that bullying incidents are accurately reported. Provides that the department must report discrepancies of an audit on the department's Internet web site. Requires the department to conduct a statewide survey concerning the improvement of school corporation reporting of incidents of bullying involving a student to the department. Requires, not later than November 1, 2018, the department to submit a report to the general assembly.
 
HB1399 Second Reading: ordered engrossed
Elementary school teacher content area licenses. Provides that, not later than July 1, 2019, the state board of education shall adopt rules to establish elementary school teacher content area licenses that must, at a minimum, include an: (1) elementary mathematics specialist license; and (2) elementary mathematics teacher license or an elementary mathematics and science teacher license. Establishes requirements to be eligible for an elementary mathematics specialist license, an elementary mathematics teacher license, and an elementary mathematics and science teacher license. Requires the department of education (department) to develop an incentive program to assist and reward teachers who pursue and earn an elementary school teacher content area license. Provides that the department shall make recommendations to the general assembly regarding ways to accomplish the goals of the incentive program.
 
HB1420 Second Reading: amended, ordered engrossed
Various education matters. Makes changes regarding the nomination and approval of certain members of the commission on seclusion and restraint in schools. Provides that a student with special needs who has a service plan or a choice scholarship educational plan must be received (if certain conditions in current law apply) as a student in, as applicable, the following: (1) The Indiana School for the Deaf. (2) The Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Provides that a student who is withdrawn from enrollment from a virtual charter school for failure to participate in courses pursuant to the school's student engagement policy may not reenroll in that same virtual charter school for the school year in which the student is withdrawn. Establishes requirements regarding charter school closure protocols. Provides that a Cambridge International course may be used for the following purposes: (1) As the basis for a supplemental payment to a teacher who teaches a Cambridge International course. (2) As one of the assessments that a student plans to take voluntarily during grades 10 through 12. (3) As an additional curriculum model available to high school students. (4) As a replacement for certain high school courses on a student's high school transcript. (5) For a student's receipt of credits toward graduation by demonstrating proficiency in a course or subject area. (6) To place a student who is a child of a military family in the appropriate course when the student transfers to a new school. (7) For purposes of determining eligibility for various higher education scholarship and awards programs and amounts. Provides that each student who enrolls in a Cambridge International course may take the accompanying Cambridge International examination to receive high school credit for the Cambridge International course. Requires the department of education (department) and the state board of education (state board) to provide that a successfully completed Cambridge International course is credited toward fulfilling the requirements of an Indiana diploma with a Core 40 with academic honors designation. Provides, subject to certain conditions, that an individual or entity must submit a written notice to a public school that: (1) notifies the public school of an alleged violation of law; and (2) indicates a proposed remedy; before the individual or entity may initiate a civil action or an administrative proceeding against the public school. Establishes requirements regarding a proposed remedy. Provides that, if an individual or entity does not submit a notice to the public school before initiating a civil action or administrative proceeding, a court, administrative law judge, or hearing officer shall dismiss the civil action or administrative proceeding without prejudice. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the impact of litigation on school corporations and charter schools. Provides that an issuing officer shall issue an employment certificate to a student who attends a nonaccredited nonpublic school after receiving: (1) proof of age; and (2) proof of prospective employment. Provides that a child who: (1) attends a nonaccredited nonpublic school; and (2) is seeking an employment certificate from a school the child does not attend; must present to the issuing officer an attestation from the student's parent that the student is enrolled in school. Provides that a the attestation may be submitted to the issuing officer via facsimile or electronic mail. Amends provisions regarding when a child may work. Requires each school corporation, charter school, and accredited nonpublic elementary school to include cursive writing in its curriculum. Provides that a school corporation may provide summer school educational services through an online provider. Voids 511 IAC 12-2-2(b), which pertains to reimbursements from the department of education for summer school. Requires the department to prepare and submit a report regarding teacher licensing examination matters. Requires the state board to prepare and submit a report concerning the validity of pedagogy and content area examinations used for teacher licensing. Clarifies the meaning of "school" for purposes of the work ethic certificate program. Repeals a provision concerning the transfer of student records. Makes conforming amendments. Resolves a conflict between P.L.217-2017 and P.L.250-2017. 
 
HB1421 Second Reading: amended, ordered engrossed
School discipline. Provides that the department of education's (department) model evidence based plan for improving student behavior and discipline must: (1) reduce out-of-school suspension and disproportionality in discipline and expulsion; (2) limit referrals to law enforcement or arrests on school property to cases in which referral to law enforcement or arrest is necessary to protect the health and safety of other students or school employees; and (3) include policies to address instances of bullying and cyberbullying on school property of a school corporation. Provides that, beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, the department, in collaboration with parent organizations, teacher organizations, educational support professional organizations, and state educational institutions, shall, upon a school corporation's request, provide information and assistance to the school corporation regarding the implementation of the school corporation's evidence based plan to ensure that teachers and administrators receive appropriate professional development and other resources in preparation for carrying out the plan. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the use of positive student discipline and restorative justice practices by elementary and secondary schools. Requires the department to conduct a survey of school corporation school discipline policies to determine the extent to which positive discipline and restorative justice practices are being utilized. 
 
HB1426 Second Reading:  amended, ordered engrossed
Education matters. Urges the legislative council during the 2018 through 2020 interims to assign to the education interim study committee the task of studying issues relating to a school corporation's ability to provide adequate career counseling to students. Requires the state board of education (state board) to establish one standard Indiana diploma for individuals who successfully complete high school graduation requirements. (Current law establishes four different diplomas.) Provides that each Indiana diploma must include one of the following designations: (1) General designation. (2) Core 40 designation. (3) Core 40 with academic honors designation. (4) Core 40 with technical honors designation. Requires the state board to create an alternate diploma for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Requires, in adopting Core 40 curriculum models, the state board to consider math course requirements other than Algebra II. Requires the state board to adopt rules to establish: (1) math course requirements; and (2) science course requirements; for the Core 40 curriculum models. Provides that, for each school year beginning after June 30, 2019, a high school shall administer as part of the statewide assessment a nationally recognized college entrance exam. Eliminates the requirement of end of course assessments to be administered as part of the statewide assessment program. Provides that: (1) if a nationally recognized college entrance exam administered by a high school assesses science, the nationally recognized college entrance exam must be used to assess science for the grade level for which the nationally recognized college entrance exam is administered; or (2) if a nationally recognized college entrance exam does not assess science, another examination may be administered to assess science. Resolves a conflict in a provision that requires the state board to develop guidelines to assist secondary schools to identify students likely to require remediation. Eliminates a requirement that a student must take a college and career readiness examination if the student is identified under the guidelines developed by the state board to likely be in need of remediation. Provides that certain statewide assessments must use a scale score that will ensure the statewide assessment scores are comparable to assessment scoring used as part of the ISTEP program, before its expiration. Provides that a student may receive a waiver from the postsecondary readiness competency requirements that are part of the graduation pathway requirements if the student meets certain conditions. Adds a provision to the list of purposes for which a charter school may limit new admissions to the charter school. Repeals provisions that: (1) require the state board to design a high school diploma for the high school fast track program; and (2) establish a subcommittee to make recommendations regarding diplomas and certain course requirements and develop the requirements for a career and technical education diploma. Makes conforming amendments. Specifies that certain provisions of SEA 354-2018 take effect upon passage instead of taking effect on July 1, 2018.
 
HB1039 Third reading passed; Roll Call 288: yeas 48, nays 0
529 Plans. Provides the following for purposes of the state income tax credit for contributions to a college choice 529 education savings plan: (1) The term "qualified higher education expenses" has the meaning set forth in the Internal Revenue Code as in effect on January 1, 2017. (2) A taxpayer is not entitled to the credit for money that is credited to an account and that will be used to pay for expenses for tuition in connection with enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private, or religious school or that will be transferred to an ABLE account. (3) For purposes of determining the recapture of the credit, a withdrawal or distribution that is used to pay for expenses for tuition in connection with enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private, or religious school or that is a rollover distribution or transfer of assets or to an ABLE account is a nonqualified withdrawal. Urges the legislative council to assign to the interim study committee on fiscal policy certain study topics related to 529 plans. Requires the Indiana education savings authority to report to the interim study committee on fiscal policy concerning the investment of assets under the education savings programs it administers, including information concerning the ways in which the investment of those assets benefits Indiana.
 
TUESDAY

Bills to Be Read by the House on March 6 at 10:00 a.m.
 
SB297 Senate concurred in House amendments; Roll Call 278: yeas 46, nays 2
Employability skills curriculum. Provides that the department of workforce development will establish standards that provide students with career and college planning resources under the Indiana career explorer program and standards. (Current law provides that the department of workforce development will establish curriculum under the Indiana career explorer program and curriculum.) Provides that, not later than July 1, 2019, each school within a school corporation shall include interdisciplinary employability skills standards established by the department of education (department), in conjunction with the department of workforce development and approved by the state board of education, in the school's curriculum. Provides that, if the department determines that the pilot program for instruction in and use of the Indiana career explorer program and standards should be extended, the department, in consultation with the department of workforce development, must increase the number of schools involved in the pilot program by at least 15 additional schools, if possible based on the interest from schools. Provides that the state board of education, in consultation with the department and the department of workforce development, may approve an alternative Internet based system and standards (Current law provides that the department, in consultation with the department of workforce development may approve alternative Internet based system and standards.) Establishes the work ethic certificate program (program). Requires the department of workforce development to administer the program.
 
HB1167 House concurred in Senate amendments; Roll Call 332: yeas 92, nays 0
School Corporation Financial Management. Permits money in a school corporation's operations fund at the end of a year to be transferred to the school corporation's rainy day fund. Combines various levies into a single operations fund levy beginning in 2019. Changes provisions concerning the education fund and operations fund. Specifies the items to be included in a school corporation's capital projects plan. Changes the reasons for which a school corporation may appeal to increase the school corporation's operations fund levy for transportation purposes. Requires an appeal to increase or a petition to adjust the maximum operations fund levy for a year to be filed before October 20 of the preceding year. Resolves conflicts among various 2017 acts that take effect before the education funding and accounting changes made by HEA 1009-2017. Provides that the governing body of a school corporation may transfer amounts that are levied for the debt service fund to cover unreimbursed costs of certain curricular materials to the curricular materials rental fund, the extracurricular account, or the education fund. Provides that in carrying out a curricular materials rental program, the governing body may control the program through the school corporation's curricular materials rental fund or education fund. Make technical changes.
 
Bills to Be Read by the Senate on March 6 at 11:00 a.m.
 
SR 43 Second reading adopted voice vote
A SENATE RESOLUTION urging the legislative council to assign to the appropriate study committee the topic of a comprehensive review of school safety issues with the goal to do whatever is necessary to protect Hoosier children in our schools.
 
HB1002 Third reading passed; Roll Call 306: yeas 48, nays 1
Workforce funding and programs. Requires an annual workforce related program review by the legislative services agency. Provides that the governor shall appoint a secretary of workforce training. Establishes the governor's workforce cabinet to develop, not later than July 1, 2018, a comprehensive career navigation and coaching system for Indiana and requires all high schools to participate in the career coaching program. Requires workforce and education information as part of the biennial budget report that is submitted to the governor and budget committee for preparation of the governor's proposed budget bill. Provides that an emancipated student or the parent of a student enrolled in a career or technical course may voluntarily release information, on a form prescribed by the department of education, pertaining to the student's enrollment in the career and technical education course to potential employers that contact the school to recruit students with particular career and technical skills. Requires the state board of education, when establishing an apprenticeship as a graduation pathway requirement, to establish as an apprenticeship program only an apprenticeship program registered under the federal National Apprenticeship Act or another federal apprenticeship program administered by the United States Department of Labor. Revises eligibility criteria for applicants for high value workforce ready credit-bearing grants, and provides that if the demand for high value workforce ready credit-bearing grants exceeds the appropriation, the commission for higher education shall prioritize applicants who are classified as independent. Specifies that an individual who is enrolled as a part-time postsecondary student, regardless of whether a part-time student is qualified to receive an adult student grant, may participate in the employment aid readiness network (EARN) Indiana program. Transforms Ivy Tech Community College's regional boards of trustees to campus boards of trustees. Provides that the number of members of the state board of trustees of Ivy Tech must equal the number of regions established by the state board of trustees plus one additional member, but shall not exceed 15 members. Establishes the next level jobs employer training grant program. Makes certain changes in the requirements that apply to nurse faculty members. Specifies that these changes apply until June 30, 2021. Urges the legislative council to assign to a study committee the task of studying statutory and administrative barriers that may create disincentives that keep employers from establishing employer provided child care for their employees. Requires the family and social services administration and the Indiana department of transportation to perform a coordinated study on leveraging money for transportation to workforce related programs. Makes conforming amendments.
 
HB1039 Third reading passed; Roll Call 288: yeas 48, nays 0
529 Plans. Provides the following for purposes of the state income tax credit for contributions to a college choice 529 education savings plan: (1) The term "qualified higher education expenses" has the meaning set forth in the Internal Revenue Code as in effect on January 1, 2017. (2) A taxpayer is not entitled to the credit for money that is credited to an account and that will be used to pay for expenses for tuition in connection with enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private, or religious school or that will be transferred to an ABLE account. (3) For purposes of determining the recapture of the credit, a withdrawal or distribution that is used to pay for expenses for tuition in connection with enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary public, private, or religious school or that is a rollover distribution or transfer of assets or to an ABLE account is a nonqualified withdrawal. Urges the legislative council to assign to the interim study committee on fiscal policy certain study topics related to 529 plans. Requires the Indiana education savings authority to report to the interim study committee on fiscal policy concerning the investment of assets under the education savings programs it administers, including information concerning the ways in which the investment of those assets benefits Indiana.
 
HB1315 Third reading passed; Roll Call 324: yeas 35, nays 14
School corporation financial management. Allows the distressed unit appeal board (DUAB) to delegate board authority, duties, and responsibilities to the executive director by resolution of the board. Allows the DUAB to adopt rules. Requires the attorney general to represent a member of the fiscal management board, an emergency manager, a chief financial officer, or a chief academic officer if the individual requests the representation. Specifies restrictions on school corporations that are designated distressed. Specifies that waivers regarding the allocation of protected taxes apply only to distressed school corporations and not other distressed units. Provides that, for a period of two years following the termination of a political subdivision's distressed status, the political subdivision may not do any of the following without the prior approval of the DUAB: (1) Adopt a budget, tax levy, or tax rate. (2) Issue bonds. (3) Enter into a lease. Requires a political subdivision to submit certain reports to the DUAB for a period of four years following the termination of the political subdivision's distressed status. Authorizes the emergency manager of a distressed school corporation to cancel any employee's contract or terminate an employee's employment as part of a reduction in force. Provides that notification for a reduction in force of: (1) certificated employees may be delivered after September 30 and before November 1 of the contract year; and (2) noncertificated employees may be delivered at any time. Specifies that the maximum reduction in force of certificated employees under this provision may not exceed 5% of the full-time equivalency for all certificated employees in the certificated employee bargaining unit for the school corporation. Requires the emergency manager to provide any employee whose contract is being canceled with notice at least 90 days before the effective date of the cancellation. Provides that the governing body of a distressed school corporation (or the advisory board, in the case of Gary schools) may file a petition with the DUAB for termination of distressed status only if the school corporation's ongoing revenues exceed the school corporation's ongoing expenses. Specifies that the governing body or advisory board may file such a petition with the DUAB not more than one time in a 12 month period. Makes changes concerning the Gary Community school corporation and its operation. Converts the Gary Community school corporation's governing board to an advisory board. Provides that the advisory board may not hold a public meeting more often than once every three months. Provides that the advisory board may hold additional meetings that are authorized as executive sessions under the open door law. Specifies that the advisory board may vote to fill vacancies and select officers of the advisory board. Deletes from current law the requirements: (1) that the emergency manager for the Gary Community school corporation must consult with the fiscal management board and the governing body; and (2) that the emergency manager for the Gary Community school corporation must consult with the mayor, the fiscal management board, and the governing body when developing the school corporation's annual budget and developing a financial plan, and provides that the emergency manager shall consider any recommendations from these entities. Requires the chief financial officer and chief academic officer to submit a quarterly report the advisory board. Removes the laws concerning the Muncie Community school corporation being a fiscally impaired school corporation. Permits the Ball State University board of trustees to adopt a resolution to govern the Muncie Community school corporation using a newly appointed seven member governing board. Requires certain members of the governing body to reside in the Muncie Community school corporation district. Provides that in making the appointments to the governing body of the Muncie Community school corporation, the Ball State University board of trustees and the President of Ball State University shall strive to ensure that the members appointed to the governing body reflect the geographical and socioeconomic composition of the school district. Provides that the terms of office of the two members appointed by the President of Ball State University expire on June 30, 2022, and beginning July 1, 2022, two members of the board shall be individuals elected at-large. Requires the first elected members to be elected at the 2022 primary election. Specifies that the governing body serving on June 30, 2018, shall become on July 1, 2018, an advisory board to the governing body appointed by the President and board of trustees of Ball State University. Requires the governing body to engage academically innovative strategies. Specifies that only certain laws in IC 20 will apply to the Muncie Community school corporation. Specifies other conditions. Provides that during the period beginning July 1, 2018, and ending June 30, 2022, the DUAB shall provide financial support to the Muncie Community school corporation in an amount that does not exceed the amount of compensation that would have been provided to an emergency manager of the school corporation if the school corporation had retained the designation of a distressed political subdivision. Permits the DUAB to recommend to the state board of finance that the state board of finance make an interest free loan to the Muncie Community school corporation. Establishes a fiscal and qualitative indicators committee (committee) to make determinations about the fiscal and qualitative factors to be used in analyzing the financial condition of school corporations. Specifies certain factors that may be used. Requires the committee to make determinations about the presentation of the factors and the financial condition of school corporations to the public and the frequency of updates. Requires the DUAB to present school financial condition information on its Internet web site or the management performance hub Internet web site. Sets minimum standards for presenting the information. Requires the DUAB to determine the financial condition of each school corporation and whether a school corporation should be placed on a watch list. Requires the executive director of the DUAB to do the following: (1) Report to the state budget committee the process and procedures that will be used before a school corporation is placed on the watch list. (2) Prepare a report identifying each school corporation whose financial condition indicates the potential to be placed on the watch list. Provides that the DUAB may enter into an agreement with a school corporation to develop a corrective action plan. Requires the DUAB to meet in executive session for discussions and determinations related to placing a school corporation on the watch list. Specifies that the DUAB may make a determination to place a school corporation on the watch list only if the DUAB has, at least six months before making the determination, provided notice to the school corporation stating that the DUAB is considering making such a determination. Provides that before a school corporation is placed on a watch list, the school corporation shall be given an opportunity to meet with the DUAB and the DUAB executive director in executive session. Specifies that after the DUAB makes a determination to place the school corporation on the watch list, the school corporation may file an appeal with the DUAB and request removal from the watch list. Provides that until the DUAB has ruled on the appeal, the school corporation may not be placed on the watch list. Specifies that all correspondence and other records related to discussions and determinations concerning whether a school corporation should be placed on the watch list are confidential and not subject to public disclosure unless and until the school corporation is subsequently placed on the watch list. Specifies that if the DUAB finds that: (1) a determination has been provided by the state board of accounts specifying that a corrective action plan is appropriate for a school corporation; or (2) the fiscal and qualitative indicators indicate that a corrective action plan is appropriate for a school corporation; the DUAB shall initiate contact with the chairperson of the governing body and the superintendent of the school corporation and offer to provide technical assistance to the school corporation. Provides that the DUAB may form a technical assistance team. Provides that the governing body of the Indianapolis Public Schools may sell a closed, unused, or unoccupied school building without making the vacant school building available to a charter school if certain conditions are satisfied. Amends the definition of "deficit financing" for a budget year to mean, in the case of any distressed school corporation, the Gary Community school corporation, or the Muncie Community school corporation: (1) actual expenditures; plus (2) additional payments against any outstanding debt obligations; exceeding the employer's current year actual education fund revenue. Provides that until June 30, 2018, the governing body of Gary schools, rather than the emergency manager, shall exercise the power to fill a vacancy on the governing body. Resolves conflicts. Makes technical corrections. 
 
HB1356 Third reading passed; Roll Call 329: yeas 49, nays 0
Bullying. Provides that a school corporation is not required to report the number of incidents of bullying in the school corporation's annual school performance report. Provides that information reported by a school corporation relating to the number of incidents of bullying that occur may not be used in calculation of a school's annual school improvement grade. Provides that the department of education (department) must annually send notification via electronic mail or a letter to each school corporation explaining: (1) the school corporation's obligation to submit a report to the department containing the number of bullying incidents involving a student; and (2) that the department may conduct an audit of the school corporation to ensure that bullying incidents are accurately reported. Provides that the department may conduct an audit of a school corporation to ensure that bullying incidents are accurately reported. Provides that the department must report discrepancies of an audit on the department's Internet web site. Requires the department to conduct a statewide survey concerning the improvement of school corporation reporting of incidents of bullying involving a student to the department. Requires, not later than November 1, 2018, the department to submit a report to the general assembly. 
 
HB1399 Third reading passed; Roll Call 332: yeas 48, nays 1
Elementary school teacher content area licenses. Provides that, not later than July 1, 2019, the state board of education shall adopt rules to establish elementary school teacher content area licenses that must, at a minimum, include an: (1) elementary mathematics specialist license; and (2) elementary mathematics teacher license or an elementary mathematics and science teacher license. Establishes requirements to be eligible for an elementary mathematics specialist license, an elementary mathematics teacher license, and an elementary mathematics and science teacher license. Requires the department of education (department) to develop an incentive program to assist and reward teachers who pursue and earn an elementary school teacher content area license. Provides that the department shall make recommendations to the general assembly regarding ways to accomplish the goals of the incentive program.
 
HB1420 Third reading passed; Roll Call 334: yeas 49, nays 0
Various education matters. Makes changes regarding the nomination and approval of certain members of the commission on seclusion and restraint in schools. Provides that a student with special needs who has a service plan or a choice scholarship educational plan must be received (if certain conditions in current law apply) as a student in, as applicable, the following: (1) The Indiana School for the Deaf. (2) The Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Provides that a student who is withdrawn from enrollment from a virtual charter school for failure to participate in courses pursuant to the school's student engagement policy may not reenroll in that same virtual charter school for the school year in which the student is withdrawn. Establishes requirements regarding charter school closure protocols. Provides that a Cambridge International course may be used for the following purposes: (1) As the basis for a supplemental payment to a teacher who teaches a Cambridge International course. (2) As one of the assessments that a student plans to take voluntarily during grades 10 through 12. (3) As an additional curriculum model available to high school students. (4) As a replacement for certain high school courses on a student's high school transcript. (5) For a student's receipt of credits toward graduation by demonstrating proficiency in a course or subject area. (6) To place a student who is a child of a military family in the appropriate course when the student transfers to a new school. (7) For purposes of determining eligibility for various higher education scholarship and awards programs and amounts. Provides that each student who enrolls in a Cambridge International course may take the accompanying Cambridge International examination to receive high school credit for the Cambridge International course. Requires the department of education (department) and the state board of education (state board) to provide that a successfully completed Cambridge International course is credited toward fulfilling the requirements of an Indiana diploma with a Core 40 with academic honors designation. Provides, subject to certain conditions, that an individual or entity must submit a written notice to a public school that: (1) notifies the public school of an alleged violation of law; and (2) indicates a proposed remedy; before the individual or entity may initiate a civil action or an administrative proceeding against the public school. Establishes requirements regarding a proposed remedy. Provides that, if an individual or entity does not submit a notice to the public school before initiating a civil action or administrative proceeding, a court, administrative law judge, or hearing officer shall dismiss the civil action or administrative proceeding without prejudice. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the impact of litigation on school corporations and charter schools. Provides that an issuing officer shall issue an employment certificate to a student who attends a nonaccredited nonpublic school after receiving: (1) proof of age; and (2) proof of prospective employment. Provides that a child who: (1) attends a nonaccredited nonpublic school; and (2) is seeking an employment certificate from a school the child does not attend; must present to the issuing officer an attestation from the student's parent that the student is enrolled in school. Provides that a the attestation may be submitted to the issuing officer via facsimile or electronic mail. Amends provisions regarding when a child may work. Requires each school corporation, charter school, and accredited nonpublic elementary school to include cursive writing in its curriculum. Provides that a school corporation may provide summer school educational services through an online provider. Requires the department to prepare and submit a report regarding teacher licensing examination matters. Requires the state board to prepare and submit a report concerning the validity of pedagogy and content area examinations used for teacher licensing. Clarifies the meaning of "school" for purposes of the work ethic certificate program. Repeals a provision concerning the transfer of student records. Makes conforming amendments. Resolves a conflict between P.L.217-2017 and P.L.250-2017. 
 
HB1421 Third reading passed; Roll Call 335: yeas 46, nays 3
School discipline. Provides that the department of education's (department) model evidence based plan for improving student behavior and discipline must: (1) reduce out-of-school suspension and disproportionality in discipline and expulsion; (2) limit referrals to law enforcement or arrests on school property to cases in which referral to law enforcement or arrest is necessary to protect the health and safety of students or school employees; and (3) include policies to address instances of bullying and cyberbullying on school property of a school corporation. Provides that, beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, the department, in collaboration with parent organizations, teacher organizations, educational support professional organizations, and state educational institutions, shall, upon a school corporation's request, provide information and assistance to the school corporation regarding the implementation of the school corporation's evidence based plan to ensure that teachers and administrators receive appropriate professional development and other resources in preparation for carrying out the plan. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the use of positive student discipline and restorative justice practices by elementary and secondary schools. Requires the department to conduct a survey of school corporation school discipline policies to determine the extent to which positive discipline and restorative justice practices are being utilized. 
 
HB1426 Third reading passed; Roll Call 336: yeas 49, nays 0
Education matters. Urges the legislative council during the 2018 through 2020 interims to assign to the education interim study committee the task of studying issues relating to a school corporation's ability to provide adequate career counseling to students. Requires the state board of education (state board) to establish one standard Indiana diploma for individuals who successfully complete high school graduation requirements. (Current law establishes four different diplomas.) Provides that each Indiana diploma must include one of the following designations: (1) General designation. (2) Core 40 designation. (3) Core 40 with academic honors designation. (4) Core 40 with technical honors designation. Requires the state board to create an alternate diploma for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Requires, in adopting Core 40 curriculum models, the state board to consider math course requirements other than Algebra II. Requires the state board to adopt rules to establish: (1) math course requirements; and (2) science course requirements; for the Core 40 curriculum models. Provides that, for each school year beginning after June 30, 2019, a high school shall administer as part of the statewide assessment a nationally recognized college entrance exam. Eliminates the requirement of end of course assessments to be administered as part of the statewide assessment program. Provides that: (1) if a nationally recognized college entrance exam administered by a high school assesses science, the nationally recognized college entrance exam must be used to assess science for the grade level for which the nationally recognized college entrance exam is administered; or (2) if a nationally recognized college entrance exam does not assess science, another examination may be administered to assess science. Resolves a conflict in a provision that requires the state board to develop guidelines to assist secondary schools to identify students likely to require remediation. Eliminates a requirement that a student must take a college and career readiness examination if the student is identified under the guidelines developed by the state board to likely be in need of remediation. Provides that certain statewide assessments must use a scale score that will ensure the statewide assessment scores are comparable to assessment scoring used as part of the ISTEP program, before its expiration. Provides that a student may receive a waiver from the postsecondary readiness competency requirements that are part of the graduation pathway requirements if the student meets certain conditions. Adds a provision to the list of purposes for which a charter school may limit new admissions to the charter school. Repeals provisions that: (1) require the state board to design a high school diploma for the high school fast track program; and (2) establish a subcommittee to make recommendations regarding diplomas and certain course requirements and develop the requirements for a career and technical education diploma. Makes conforming amendments. Specifies that certain provisions of SEA 354-2018 take effect upon passage instead of taking effect on July 1, 2018. 
 
SB217 - Senate concurred in House amendments; Roll Call 341: yeas 49, nays 0
Dyslexia. Requires the following: (1) A school multidisciplinary team must include information about dyslexia in a student's educational evaluation if the multidisciplinary team determines that the student is eligible to receive special education and related services and has or has characteristics of dyslexia. (2) Information about dyslexia must be: (A) discussed by the student's case conference committee if information about dyslexia is included in the student's educational evaluation; and (B) included in the student's individualized education program if the case conference committee determines that the information should be included. Provides that a school corporation and charter school's reading plan shall include indicators to screen for risk factors of dyslexia, using a screening tool approved by the department of education (department). Requires school corporations and charter schools to: (1) use the response to intervention process to address needs of students who are determined to have characteristics of dyslexia; and (2) obtain parental consent before administering a level I dyslexia screening or a level II dyslexia screening. Provides that dyslexia interventions may include certain types of instruction. Requires school corporations and charter schools to report annually to the department regarding the number of students who were: (1) administered the initial dyslexia screening during the school year; and (2) determined to be at risk, or at some risk, for dyslexia. Requires a school corporation and charter school to report on the school corporation's or charter school's Internet web site certain information regarding dyslexia. Requires, not later than July 1, 2019, the department to employ at least one reading specialist trained in dyslexia. Requires, not later than the 2019-2020 school year, each school corporation and charter school to employ at least one individual to serve as an authorized reading specialist trained in dyslexia for the school corporation or charter school. Provides that a school corporation or charter school may receive a waiver from hiring an authorized reading specialist trained in dyslexia in certain circumstances. Requires, not later than the 2019-2020 school year, the department to ensure that each teacher receives professional awareness information on dyslexia. Requires the department to develop and update an Indiana dyslexia resource guide.
 
WEDNESDAY
 
Conference Committees for March 7
 
HB1001 (Bill Scheduled for Hearing); Time & Location: 2:30 PM, Rm. 156-A
Education funding. Requires the budget agency to transfer from the K-12 state tuition reserve account to the state general fund the amount necessary to cover the K-12 state tuition distribution amount when it exceeds the appropriated amount. Expires this provision on June 30, 2019. Expires the provision that limits the maximum state distributions for a state fiscal year to the amount appropriated by the general assembly on June 30, 2019. Specifies the ADM count for kindergarten pupils. Makes conforming changes.
 
HB1074 (Bill Scheduled for Hearing); Time & Location: 9:30 AM, Rm. 156-D
Various higher education matters. Provides that the provisions regarding employment of construction managers as constructors for public works projects applies only to state educational institutions after June 30, 2020. (Current law expires these provisions on July 1, 2020.) Makes changes regarding the: (1) conditions required to qualify for the renewal of a twenty-first century scholars program scholarship; and (2) award amounts to twenty-first century scholars program scholarship applicants who attend a private, approved postsecondary educational institution. Makes the following changes concerning the primary care shortage area scholarship: (1) Amends the practice requirements to receive a scholarship. (2) Amends the repayment requirements for noncompliance with a primary care practice agreement. (3) Allows the commission for higher education (commission) to impose and collect interest on unpaid repayment amounts. (4) Provides that, if the commission and a recipient of a scholarship enter into a new written agreement that complies with the primary care shortage area scholarship provisions, the commission and recipient may terminate an agreement entered into or renewed before July 1, 2018. Requires the chairperson of the commission to appoint a: (1) seven member student member nominating committee; and (2) seven member faculty member nominating committee. (Current law requires the chairperson to appoint a ten member nominating committee of five student members and five faculty members.) Provides that an applicant who: (1) does not maintain satisfactory academic progress as required to be eligible for a high value workforce ready credit-bearing grant; but (2) meets other certain conditions; is still eligible for the grant. Modifies the procedures that a state educational institution must use to dispose of real estate (including any real estate acquired by gift, bequest, or devise). Repeals certain statutes concerning: (1) the disposition of gifts, bequests, and devises of real estate to state educational institutions; and (2) matters that pertain to the closing process in the disposition of real estate by a state educational institution. Makes conforming amendments. Removes an expired provision.
 
HB1398 (Bill Scheduled for Hearing); Time & Location: 11:00 AM, Rm. 156-B
Coalition of school corporations and schools. Provides that the state board of education (state board) may approve a coalition of continuous improvement school districts (coalition). Provides that certain statutes or rules may be suspended for a coalition member. Specifies that the state board may approve a plan submitted by a proposed coalition that requests the suspension of all or portions of IC 20-30 (curriculum) only if the suspension is related to a specific goal of the proposed coalition. Requires the department of education to annually report to the legislative council information regarding the following: (1) The fiscal impact on a school corporation or school that participates in a coalition. (2) The qualifications of each teacher who teaches in a coalition. (3) The type of future employment for which a student in a coalition is trained, if applicable, and the amount and terms of compensation that a student receives through a coalition's partnership with a member of business or industry. (4) The impact of a coalition member's participation in a coalition on the coalition member's graduation rates. (5) Information regarding where a student in a coalition later obtains full-time employment, if applicable. 

Signed by Governor on March 7, 2018

SB24
Student possession and use of sunscreen. Provides that a student may possess and use a topical, non-aerosol sunscreen product while on school property or at a school sponsored event or activity without being required to: (1) have a physician's note or prescription; or (2) store the topical, non-aerosol sunscreen product in a specific location; if the product is regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration for over-the-counter use for the purpose of limiting ultraviolet light-induced skin damage. Allows school personnel to assist a student in applying the sunscreen if the school has written permission from the student's parent or guardian. Provides certain civil immunity for school corporations, schools, and school personnel for any action taken to comply with the sunscreen provisions.

​THURSDAY

Bills to Be Read by the Senate on March 7 at 1:30 p.m.

SB172 - Concurrence
​Computer science. Establishes the next level computer science grant program (program) and the next level computer science fund (fund) to award grants, after June 30, 2019, to eligible entities to implement teacher professional development programs for training in teaching computer science. Requires the department of education (department) to: (1) administer the program and fund; and (2) develop, in consultation with the governor's office, guidelines to award grants from the fund to eligible entities. Requires, not later than August 1, 2018, the state superintendent of public instruction to enter into a contract for professional development services. Requires the department to biannually submit a progress report to the governor regarding the: (1) development and administration of the program and fund; and (2) status of public schools in meeting computer science curriculum requirements. Provides that, if the department does not comply with the requirements regarding the program and fund, the state board of education shall assume the department's duties. Requires (beginning July 1, 2021) each public school to offer a computer science course as a one semester elective course in its curriculum at least once each school year to high school students. Requires (beginning July 1, 2021) each public school to include computer science in the public school's science curriculum for students in kindergarten through grade 12.

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Compiled by Meghann Goetz and Keri Miksza