H97 - 2015 Appropriations Act, Sec. 8.30: Department of Public Instruction Study/Improve Outcomes for Students with Disabilities (SL 2015-241)

Overview: Sec. 8.30 of S.L. 2015-241 directs the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to study and develop potential policy changes for improving outcomes for students with disabilities (SWD). DPI must do at least the following:

• Examine current individualized education program (IEP) requirements and develop reforms focused on outcome-based goals for SWDs.
• Solicit input and bring together interested parties to develop policies on transition services plans for SWDs between levels of education from elementary to postsecondary education and for employment opportunities and adult living options.
• Solicit input and bring together stakeholders to create ways for students with IEPs to access the Future Ready Core Course of Study in more significant numbers.
• Examine model programs that may be employed by local school administrative units aimed at increasing the graduation rate and school performance of SWDs.

DPI must report to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee on the progress of developing and implementing these policy changes by November 15, 2015, and annually thereafter.

This section became effective July 1, 2015.