Education Laws and Regulations

Notice of Public Comment for the Student Discipline Regulations, 603 CMR 53.00

Pursuant to its authority under M.G.L. c.69, § 1B and c.71, §§ 37H and 37H¾, and in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, M.G.L. c. 30A, § 3, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (Board) is soliciting public comment on the proposed amendment to 603 CMR 53.00, Student Discipline Regulations.

The proposed amendment would conform the regulatory language in 603 CMR 53.05, Alternatives to Suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾, to the updated statutory language in M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾(b), as amended by Acts of 2022, c. 177, § 29. The updated statute specifies procedures and documentation that are required before public school students are suspended for disciplinary matters covered by M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾.

Copies of the proposed amendment are available on the Department's website or by calling 781-338-3010. Written comments on the proposed amendment may be submitted by mail to: Office of Student and Family Support, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148, by fax to: 781-338-3090, or by e-mail to: achievement@doe.mass.edu . The deadline for submission of public comment is August 11, 2023 at 5pm. The Board is expected to vote on the proposed amendment at its regular monthly meeting scheduled for September 19, 2023.