UT HB0426

Local education agencies (LEAs) operating learner validated programs must assign a licensed teacher of record for each student and maintain written policies defining enrollment requirements, academic progress standards, and instructional hour calculations

LEAs must establish maximum student-to-teacher ratios, require sequential completion of coursework, and implement assessed checkpoints with verified academic integrity to confirm student identity and progress

Students in learner validated programs generate equivalent weighted pupil units as full-time enrolled students only if the LEA meets documentation and compliance requirements including teacher assignment and participation tracking

State Board of Education may grant waivers of pacing, checkpoint, and sequential completion requirements for students who demonstrate proficiency through approved assessments or documented mastery, though teacher of record and monitoring requirements cannot be waived

Effective date: May 6, 2026