Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 043 - Dietetics Licensing Board
The Wyoming Administrative Code for Agency 206 - Education, Dept. of, outlines the extensive rules and regulations that govern public education in Wyoming. The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), in conjunction with the State Board of Education, is responsible for ensuring a "complete and uniform system of education" as mandated by the Wyoming Constitution.
This administrative code provides the specific details for implementing the broader education statutes passed by the Wyoming Legislature. It covers a vast array of topics related to the operation, standards, and oversight of public schools and educational programs within the state.
While a comprehensive list of all chapters is extensive, here are some of the primary areas and types of regulations you would typically find under Agency 206:
Key Areas and Chapters (examples based on common educational regulations):
Accreditation of Schools and Districts:
Chapter 6 - District and School Accreditation: This chapter sets forth the standards and procedures for how public school districts and individual schools in Wyoming are accredited. This often includes criteria for curriculum, instructional time, student performance, facility standards, and staffing. (e.g., 206-26 Wyo. Code R. §§ 26-12 - Verification indicates rules on verifying compliance with accreditation).
Curriculum and Instruction Standards:
Rules outlining uniform student content and performance standards for various subject areas (e.g., English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Career/Vocational Education).
Regulations regarding specific educational programs (e.g., gifted and talented programs, alternative education).
Special Education:
Chapter 42 - Seclusion and Restraint in Schools: This chapter details the rules for the use of seclusion and restraint with students in public schools, emphasizing student safety, de-escalation techniques, and staff training. This is a crucial area for protecting students with disabilities.
Rules governing the identification, evaluation, and provision of a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for students with disabilities in accordance with federal and state laws (like IDEA). This includes individualized education programs (IEPs), related services, and due process procedures.
Student Assessment and Accountability:
Rules related to statewide student assessment systems, including the types of tests administered, reporting requirements, and how assessment data is used for accountability and school improvement.
Regulations for the statewide accountability system for schools and districts based on student performance.
School Finance and Funding:
Rules on the allocation and expenditure of state and federal funds for education, including specific grant programs.
Guidelines for school district budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting to ensure uniformity and transparency.
School Facilities and Safety:
Regulations concerning the safety and health of school environments, including things like fire safety, emergency plans, and potentially environmental health.
Professional Development and Educator Certification (though largely handled by the Professional Teaching Standards Board):
While the Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) handles specific teacher certification, the WDE's code might touch upon requirements for certain school personnel or programs that interact with certification.
Private School Licensing (for non-religious schools):
Chapter 18 - Rules and Regulations on Private School Licensing for Students in Non-Religious Elementary: This chapter covers the licensing requirements for non-religious private elementary and secondary schools, ensuring they meet minimum educational standards for compulsory attendance laws.
Student Rights and Discipline:
Rules regarding student rights, attendance, and disciplinary procedures, including suspensions and expulsions, often aligning with state statutes.
Data Collection and Reporting:
Regulations on what data school districts must collect and report to the WDE, and how that data is used.
Primary Responsibilities of the Wyoming Department of Education (as reflected in the code):
Policy Implementation: Implementing educational policies established by the State Board of Education and the Legislature.
Oversight and Accountability: Monitoring school districts and schools for compliance with state and federal laws, educational standards, and accountability measures.
Standard Setting: Prescribing uniform student content and performance standards for public schools.
Resource Allocation: Administering and disbursing state and federal funds for educational programs.
Support and Guidance: Providing guidance, technical assistance, and resources to school districts, educators, and parents.
Reporting: Collecting and reporting data on educational outcomes, financial matters, and other relevant information to the Legislature and the public.
How the WDE Regulates Public Schools and Educational Programs:
The WDE regulates through:
Rulemaking: Developing and enforcing the detailed administrative rules within Agency 206.
Accreditation Process: Requiring schools and districts to meet accreditation standards and conducting reviews to ensure compliance.
Monitoring and Compliance: Regularly monitoring school district operations, educational programs, and fiscal practices.
Investigations and Enforcement: Investigating complaints of non-compliance and taking appropriate action, which can range from requiring corrective action plans to imposing penalties or withdrawing accreditation in severe cases.
Technical Assistance: Offering training, resources, and expert advice to help districts and schools meet state requirements and improve educational outcomes.
Grant Administration: Setting requirements and overseeing the use of various state and federal grants for specific educational initiatives.
How to Access the Wyoming Administrative Code for the Department of Education:
You can access the full text of these rules through official Wyoming government sources:
Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) Website: The official WDE website (edu.wyoming.gov) is often the best place to find direct links to their current rules and regulations. Look for sections related to "Rules and Regulations," "Administrative Rules," or "Legal."
Wyoming Secretary of State - Administrative Rules System: The Wyoming Secretary of State's office maintains the official, searchable database of the Wyoming Administrative Code. You can search by agency number (206) or by keyword.
Legal Research Databases: Reputable legal research platforms like Law.Cornell.Edu (LII), Justia, LexisNexis, and Westlaw also host the Wyoming Administrative Code and provide searchable access.
When referencing the code, always ensure you are using the most current version available from an official source, as rules can be updated periodically.
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