Bill > HB3909

This bill introduces several significant changes to Oregon's education system, focusing on school choice and educational opportunities. First, it increases the percentage of students in a school district who can enroll in virtual public charter schools from 3% to 6% without requiring district approval. Second, the bill mandates that school districts participate in open enrollment, allowing students to attend schools outside their resident district, with a waiver process for districts that can demonstrate potential adverse impacts. Third, the bill directs the Department of Education to establish education savings accounts for students from low-income families or households with annual incomes up to $125,000. These accounts will provide funding that can be used for educational expenses such as tuition, instructional materials, and tutoring, with 80% of the funds going directly to the student's account and 20% retained by the resident school district. The bill is designed to provide more educational flexibility and options for students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and will first apply to the 2026-2027 school year. The legislation aims to enhance school choice, support student mobility, and provide additional financial resources for educational opportunities.

Education

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3909