HB 1756 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 1210.523 relating to the Achieving Classroom Excellence Act of 2005 regarding high school graduation requirements with a standard diploma.

• Allows students with individualized education programs (IEPs) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) who are assessed using alternate achievement standards through the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) to graduate with a standard diploma if they meet five specific criteria including teacher recommendation, remediation completion, exam retakes, C average maintenance, and all other district graduation requirements.

• Establishes a formal appeal process where students denied a standard diploma by their school district have 30 days to petition the State Board of Education, which must act within 45 days of receiving the petition.

• Requires the State Board of Education to collect and report annually on exceptions, exemptions, and appeals granted by school site and district to the Governor and legislative leaders beginning October 1, 2012.

• Declares an emergency, making the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.