HB 4725 Summary

• Amends the Revised School Code to allow public school academies to operate as residential academies that provide lodging and meals to students in grades 5-12.

• Residential program participation is limited to students meeting free and reduced-price lunch income eligibility criteria and other requirements specified in the academy's contract.

• Academic program enrollment must remain open to all eligible students under standard public school academy enrollment policies, following random selection when capacity is exceeded.

• Residential program funding is to be appropriated through the Department of Human Services budget, while academic programs are funded through per-pupil public school academy funding.

• Residential academies must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding residential programs for children.