Katy Perry School Board adopts Act 313-driven policy changes, affirms two ESSER project completions

The Katy Perry School Board on Aug. 20 approved a package of policy changes required by 2024 State Legislative Act 313 and accepted substantial-completion reports for two ESSER-funded construction projects.

The policy updates, approved by voice vote after discussion, implement changes the Legislature required this year on student discipline, truancy enforcement, electronic-device rules and participation of home-study students in co‑curricular and extracurricular activities. At the same meeting the board voted to accept substantial completion of ESSER project E-13 (Iota Elementary classroom addition and covered rider) and ESSER project E-025 (Crowley interior gym renovations).

Why it matters: Act 313 alters what districts may and must do in several areas that affect students and families. The changes raise practical and fiscal questions for school leaders — from how principals document and apply discipline under the revised expulsion rules to how districts verify eligibility and manage increased demand on athletics and booster-club resources.

Discipline and expulsions Staff told the board that, under the law, a device that contains a marijuana derivative can trigger expulsion.

“Now it is something…