MO HB1819

Allows proposed or existing high-risk or alternative charter schools to include alternative arrangements for students to obtain graduation credits, including off-campus instruction, performance-based credit, embedded credit, work-study internships, and independent studies, subject to state board approval.

Expands the definition of "high-risk" students to include dropouts, students at risk of dropping out, those needing drug and alcohol treatment, refugees, those exiting incarceration, and students meeting department guidelines.

Requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to study charter schools using alternative credit arrangements after three years of operation to assess student performance, graduation rates, and workforce or higher education entry.

Allows charter schools with dropout prevention or recovery missions to enroll nonresident high-risk students or dropouts from residential care facilities, transitional living homes, or independent living programs who previously attended school in that district.

Extends the School Flex Program to charter schools, allowing eligible students ages 17-21 without a high school degree to attend minimum two instructional hours daily while pursuing employment or higher education, and requires schools to submit annual program effectiveness reports.