Bill > H0778

This bill amends existing Idaho law regarding dual enrollment, which allows students to enroll in public schools while primarily attending a nonpublic school or public charter school. Key provisions include allowing parents or guardians to enroll their children in public schools for dual enrollment purposes, with procedures to be adopted by school districts or charter schools, and prioritizing full-time public school students if a program reaches capacity. The bill clarifies that dual enrollment in a public charter school does not count towards its enrollment limits and that a student's primary education provider is where they take the majority of their coursework, preventing the use of dual enrollment to bypass charter school lotteries. It also specifies that students participating in dual enrollment can join any public school program available to other students, provided they meet eligibility requirements and behavioral standards. The bill addresses academic eligibility for nonacademic activities, requiring students to demonstrate proficiency through state-approved methods, and mandates that schools offer state tests to nonpublic students seeking dual enrollment. Furthermore, it removes a previous residency requirement for participation in nonacademic activities, allowing any student enrolled in a public school, public charter school, or a nonpublic student (defined as receiving education outside a public school, including private or home schools) to participate in nonacademic activities, such as interscholastic sports, at the school they are enrolled in, or at a public school within their residence if the activity isn't offered at their school. The bill also includes provisions for joint enrollment in regular and alternative public school programs and for enrollment in postsecondary institutions, with credits counting towards high school graduation. Finally, it declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.