Bill > HB0426

This bill establishes accountability requirements for "learner validated programs," which are educational programs, often online, that focus on a student's demonstrated progress and completion of learning objectives rather than traditional attendance. It defines an "educational service provider" as a third-party entity hired by a Local Education Agency (LEA) to deliver courses or instructional services that contribute to student enrollment numbers or graduation requirements. The bill mandates that LEAs operating these programs must have a written policy outlining how they measure continuing enrollment, assess academic progress, calculate equivalent instructional hours, and ensure the program's rigor matches that of traditional programs. Crucially, each student in a learner validated program must be assigned a "teacher of record," a licensed educator employed by the LEA who is directly responsible for the student's educational progress, curriculum oversight, and documentation of their participation and achievements. This ensures that even when contracting with external providers, the LEA maintains oversight and accountability for the quality of education provided. The bill also specifies requirements for pacing, assessments with verified academic integrity, student-teacher interactions, and student-to-teacher ratios, and clarifies that students in these programs can generate funding if these accountability measures are met.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0426.html