Starting July 2026, superintendent may declare prolonged school emergencies

Starting July 1, 2026, the State Superintendent may declare a prolonged emergency that prevents regular, in-person attendance at a public school for at least 14 consecutive school days. The declaration may cover particular school systems or individual public schools; a statewide emergency may be declared statewide. A county superintendent must make a written request, or the State Superintendent must determine that immediate action is necessary. The cause must be a natural disaster, civil disaster, public health emergency, or specific security threat identified by federal, state, or local law enforcement. The superintendent must consult the Governor and, when appropriate, the state emergency management, police, or health agency. The written declaration must describe the emergency and affected school systems or schools, and be publicized promptly. The declaration may be ended by the General Assembly, the State Board, or the State Superintendent. The superintendent must promptly publicize the termination.