SB 1135 Summary

• Creates a new exemption from local graduation requirements for pupils who transfer between schools during or after their 3rd year of high school and are currently in foster care or were in foster care at the time of transfer.

• School districts must exempt qualifying pupils from additional coursework requirements beyond statewide requirements unless the district determines the pupil can reasonably complete all requirements by the end of their 4th year of high school.

• School districts must notify affected pupils and their educational decision-makers within 30 days of transfer about exemption eligibility and whether they qualify, and must inform them how waivers affect postsecondary admission and community college transfer opportunities.

• Prohibits schools from requiring or requesting that exempted pupils graduate before the end of their 4th year if they complete statewide requirements early and are otherwise entitled to remain enrolled.

• Exemptions cannot be revoked once granted, and pupils can request exemptions at any time if they meet the eligibility criteria.