SB 534 - Beginning in the 2017-2018 academic year, the school board of each school district shall establish a policy on student participation in statewide assessments that includes acknowledgment of a parent's or emancipated student's right to refuse participation in the statewide assessment. The opt-out policy shall not be used as the basis for any adverse action against the parent, student, or other individual as described in the act. At least 30 days prior to the administration of the statewide assessments described in the act, a school district or public charter school shall send a notice to parents and adult students with specific information about the assessment as set forth in the act. The 30-day notice requirement may be waived in the event of a human-created disaster or natural disaster if such disaster affects the administration of the assessment. The opt-out form shall be accessible on the school district website. The State Board of Education and any other state agency shall not mandate student participation in a statewide assessment as a condition for high school graduation or as a requirement for a state-approved diploma. This act is similar to HB 830 (2017). JAMIE ANDREWS