HB 5182 Summary

• Revises section 10-4a to define educational interests of the state, including ensuring equal educational opportunity, reasonable financing levels, reducing racial/ethnic/economic isolation through student interaction across diverse backgrounds, and implementing State Board of Education mandates.

• Restructures the Connecticut Advisory Council for Teacher Professional Standards to consist of 19 members appointed by various state officials, the State Board of Education, and teacher unions (Connecticut Education Association and American Federation of Teachers-Connecticut).

• Establishes that for fiscal year 2025 and thereafter, per-student tuition charged by regional educational service centers operating interdistrict magnet schools shall not exceed 58 percent of the per-student tuition charged in fiscal year 2024.

• Requires the Department of Education to develop age-appropriate informational handouts explaining individualized education programs and Section 504 plans, translated into English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Polish, and available to school districts and on the department's website.

• Implements special education procedural requirements including transition service planning beginning at age 14, parental notification of rights in multiple languages, and adoption of school climate improvement plans and restorative practices response policies by school districts beginning July 1, 2025.