SB 421 - Under this act, beginning in any school year after July 2021, all virtual instructional programs offered by a public or charter school shall also be approved as a Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program (MOCAP)consistent with current law. Public school districts shall adopt policies regarding virtual instructional courses. Policies adopted must follow specified guidelines described in the act, including expansion of course offerings and access to instructional resources, short-term plans during emergencies, and home-based educational guidance. Districts shall forward a copy of such plan to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and all plans shall address certain considerations related to accessibility, performance standards, and staff and student expectations, as described in the act. Districts shall develop policies for distance learning plans with a community stakeholder working group, as described in the act. A certified staff member from each school building shall be appointed to serve as a contact for students, online teachers, and MOCAP providers. Virtual instruction courses shall be aligned with state performance and learning standards. All teachers of virtual or two-way interactive video instruction, as defined in the act, shall be provided in-service training. This act requires schools to have a local policy for student data and privacy standards, as described in the act. Schools sharing courses by means of two-way interactive video instruction shall address issues including costs, schedules, student behavior, and other logistical matters listed in the act. This act contains an emergency clause. This act is substantially similar to HB 510 (2021). MATT KIMMINAU