AZ SB1044

Adds new subsection M requiring schools to transfer suspended pupils for nonattendance to a separate location on school premises and provide quality academic instruction during the suspension period, which may occur during or after regular school hours.

Clarifies that pupils in kindergarten through fourth grade can only be suspended or expelled if they are at least seven years old and meet specific criteria including possession of weapons, drugs, conduct endangering health/safety, or persistent disruptive behavior unresponsive to documented interventions.

Requires disability screening before long-term suspension or expulsion of elementary pupils to determine behavioral issues are not disability-related.

Mandates schools document consideration and employment of alternative behavioral and disciplinary interventions before suspending or expelling elementary pupils.

Renumbers existing subsections M through Q as N through R to accommodate the new nonattendance suspension requirements.