HB 5910 Summary

• Amends teacher employment provisions in the Revised School Code to allow school districts to contract with qualified teachers for virtual course programs under state school aid act section 21f.

• Adds new section 1851b establishing requirements for e-learning day programs that school districts, intermediate school districts, and public school academies may adopt beginning in 2021-2022 school year.

• E-learning days include days when schools close due to weather or emergencies, preplanned remote instruction days (not on Mondays, Fridays, or consecutive days), or days ordered closed by governor with superintendent notice.

• Requires e-learning programs to meet 13 minimum standards including universal pupil access, at least 5 hours of instructional content daily, provision of necessary technology, special education and English learner accommodations, and adequate staff training.

• Mandates public hearings with 10-day notice before adopting or renewing e-learning programs, with annual expiration of approvals and limitations on total e-learning days based on state school aid act provisions.