Private instruction graduates would receive state-recognized diplomas and transcripts

The law would treat qualifying private instruction as completing high school and require related records to be accepted under state law. This covers students who complete secondary education through competent or independent private instruction, and their diplomas, transcripts, or other written records. The student must complete a secondary education program through competent or independent private instruction that follows state law. A parent, guardian, custodian, or instructor responsible for the program may issue the diploma, transcript, or other written record. This would apply to qualifying records issued before, on, or after the section takes effect.

The law would let approved community-based providers take part directly in the state preschool program and receive state preschool funding. This covers community-based providers approved to take part directly, not providers that partner with a school district’s program. Providers must meet program requirements and receive department approval. Continued participation after the first year depends on department approval based on accountability requirements and an on-site review. Funding may pay approved program costs, but not facility construction. Providers may use up to five percent of their funding for administration. Funding would start in a provider’s first approved school year. Continued participation in later years would require department approval.

The law would set application windows and payment amounts for education savings accounts. This covers parents or guardians requesting education savings account payments for eligible students. A parent or guardian of an eligible student must apply to the department of education. A payment would be for one school year or one semester, and families must apply again for later years. Applications for a school year could be filed from January 1 through June 30 before that year. Semester applications could be filed from October 15 through November 15 before the semester.