SB81 Summary

• Repeals existing alternative learning environment statutes (§ 6-18-508 and § 6-18-509) and establishes new Chapter 48 to comprehensively regulate alternative learning environments in public schools.

• Requires school districts to provide one or more alternative learning environments for K-12 students, either independently, through cooperation with other districts, or via education service cooperatives.

• Mandates that alternative learning environments assess students upon entry and provide non-punitive intervention services designed to address specific educational and behavioral needs.

• Requires the Department of Education to establish teacher training criteria including classroom management and student-specific instruction, and to measure program effectiveness through school performance, intervention need reduction, and dropout rates.

• Requires school districts to annually report to the department on student demographics and compliance, with the department providing reports to interim education committees by September 15 each year; effective July 1, 2011.