HB2781 Summary

• Establishes a pilot program for electronic-learning (e-learning) days in up to 3 selected school districts during the 2015-2016 through 2017-2018 school years, allowing instruction to be delivered remotely when schools would normally be closed for emergencies.

• Requires school districts participating in the e-learning pilot to submit research-based programs to the State Superintendent for approval, ensuring programs provide at least 5 clock hours of instruction per student and meet the needs of special education students and English learners.

• Mandates public hearings with at least 10 days' notice before adoption of e-learning programs, with notifications to newspapers, parents/guardians, and collective bargaining representatives.

• Directs the State Board of Education to report by June 1, 2019 on recommendations for expanding, revising, or discontinuing the e-learning program based on pilot results.

• Allows days of attendance through approved e-learning programs to count as full days of attendance for State aid purposes under Section 18-8.05.