All,

I wanted to share a quick update from Frankfort, as a large number of education-related bills have already been introduced during the current session that started last week. More than 40 bills currently touch K-12 education. While many will never move past committee, several are already gaining traction and could have real impacts on schools, students, and staff across Kentucky.

Below are some of the most significant bills that have been introduced so far:

SB 181
You may recognize this bill number as it is intentionally the same number used last year. This new version is designed to correct and clarify issues created by the 2025 version of SB 181, which affected how schools communicate with students. Lawmakers are moving quickly on this bill, and it could be heard in the Senate Education Committee as early as this week.

SB 22
This bill would allow districts’ “Grow Your Own” teacher programs to qualify for dual-credit scholarships, potentially helping more students enter the teaching profession.

SB 26
This bill would prohibit Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within KDE and local school districts.

HB 11 and HB 99
These identical bills create a framework for carving out independent school districts from districts deemed persistently underperforming. These proposals are largely aimed at JCPS but could set a precedent for how the state intervenes in struggling districts.

HB 88
This bill would give the State Auditor, instead of the Governor, the authority to decide whether Kentucky participates in a federal tax-credit program for private school scholarships. The Kentucky Supreme Court has previously ruled a similar program unconstitutional, so this bill could raise significant legal and funding concerns.

HB 102
This bill strengthens the handling of teacher misconduct, particularly by increasing transparency around prior disciplinary issues for individuals licensed by the EPSB.

HB 161
This bill would require school track facilities to be open to the public during daylight hours when not being used for school events.

HB 253
This bill would prohibit the use of three-cueing in reading instruction and require school districts to develop programs for students with dyslexia.

HB 257
This bill would allow districts to create their own local accountability systems.

HB 289
This bill would require districts to allow part-time student enrollment, but would prohibit those part-time students from participating in school athletics.

HB 304 (Governor’s Budget Proposal)
While the House majority is expected to introduce its own budget later, the Governor’s proposal (HB 304) includes funding for Pre-K for All and other education priorities. It is unlikely to move forward, but it signals where the Governor hopes to invest in schools.

If you care enough about this stuff to see the exact wording of these bills, you can find that information HERE. From the General Assembly's website, look under "Bills and Amendments" for both the House and the Senate, and select the appropriate bill number. 

I will continue to monitor these bills, especially those that directly affect our classrooms, students, and daily operations. I’ll share updates as anything moves forward that may impact us here at BES and across Bardstown City Schools.

Lance