On November 8, 2023, Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court, in Coleman v. Parkland School District, held that pursuant to Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act, a public entity holding a public meeting must post its agenda at least 24 hours ahead of its scheduled meeting and is prohibited from taking official action or adding items within that 24 hour time frame unless the issue meets one of the three … [Read more...] about Recent Case Strengthens 24 Hour Rule Under Sunshine Law
School Law Bullet
Pennsylvania Teachers’ Right to Religious Expression Enhanced With Passage of Senate Bill 84
The Pennsylvania General Assembly passed Senate Bill No. 84 this past week. This action eliminates the law that penalizes public school teachers for wearing religious garb while in the performance of their duties. What led to the passage of SB 84 and what impact it will have on Pennsylvania public schools? Amendment to the Public School Code SB 84 repeals Section 1112 of the Pennsylvania … [Read more...] about Pennsylvania Teachers’ Right to Religious Expression Enhanced With Passage of Senate Bill 84
PDE’s Bureau of Special Education Revises Recommended Prior Written Notice Forms, Intended for Use by November 1
In order to start that process, LEAs must issue a Prior Written Notice/Request for Consent form to the parents of the student. On May 1st, 2023, PDE’s Bureau of Special Education (BSE) announced that it had revised the recommended PWN/RFC form. It is important for LEAs to understand the developments that have taken place with these revisions. The new forms, intended for use … [Read more...] about PDE’s Bureau of Special Education Revises Recommended Prior Written Notice Forms, Intended for Use by November 1
Polishing Your District Policies: A Review of Professional Boundaries and Other Related Policies
As the new school year begins, School Districts should review their policies to ensure they fit contemporary standards, specifically, policies regarding professional boundaries. This topic covers not only student/teacher relationships, but social media and electronic communications as well. It is imperative that Districts implement policies on professional boundaries in order to create safe … [Read more...] about Polishing Your District Policies: A Review of Professional Boundaries and Other Related Policies
Guidance for Districts When Addressing Federal Form I-9 and Applicants With Work Visas
Subsequent to October 31, 2023, the previous version of Form I-9 will be obsolete and no longer valid for use. The Form I-9 process is managed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the new I-9 form and instructions are available on the USCIS website now. The updated I-9 form has what the Department of Homeland Security refers to as “formatting improvements,” but … [Read more...] about Guidance for Districts When Addressing Federal Form I-9 and Applicants With Work Visas
Ensuring Compliance with Employment Law this School Year
Employment Law Chair Avery E. Smith details the latest topics in Employment Law, as well as topics that frequently arise in the world of HR. Over the past few months, we have seen movement in the law as it pertains to ADA considerations, pregnant workers, nursing workers, as well as communication and speech. This blog provides guidance for Districts to ensure a smooth and compliant … [Read more...] about Ensuring Compliance with Employment Law this School Year
