MO HB617

Repeals and replaces section 171.031, RSMo, establishing requirements for school calendars and opening dates in Missouri.

Requires school boards to annually prepare calendars with a minimum of 174 days (five-day week) or 142 days (four-day week) plus 1,044 hours of actual pupil attendance, including six make-up days for inclement weather.

Sets school opening date no earlier than ten calendar days prior to the first Monday in September, unless the school board holds a public meeting and votes to approve an earlier start date.

Establishes penalties: the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall withhold one quarter of state funding under section 163.031 for each day a district violates opening date provisions.

Requires school districts designated as unaccredited or provisionally accredited to limit consecutive weeks without required attendance to six weeks between school years, three weeks between grading periods, and five days during any grading period, while maintaining minimum attendance requirements.