Bill > HB1286

This bill amends Oklahoma's school year requirements to allow school districts and charter schools to include up to ten virtual instruction days per year for specific reasons such as inclement weather, staff unavailability due to illness or professional development, and building maintenance issues. The bill defines "virtual instruction" as education delivered via internet or digital systems and requires school districts to develop policies specifying how virtual instruction will be conducted, including provisions for students without internet access. School administrators must notify the State Department of Education within 72 hours of using a virtual day and provide details about the reason for virtual instruction. The department will review these notifications and can require additional in-person instruction if the virtual day does not comply with the policy. Virtual instruction can include synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous instruction, and must be research-based and age-appropriate. The State Department of Education may audit school records to ensure compliance, and if less than a majority of students participate in virtual instruction, the school may be required to provide an additional in-person instruction day. Schools can appeal department decisions to the State Board of Education. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1286&Session=2600