(Note: This section is effective July 1, 2026.) Learner Engagement and Attendance Program

(a) For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and each fiscal year thereafter, the Department of Education shall, within available appropriations, administer the Learner Engagement and Attendance Program. Under the program, the department shall provide grants to local and regional boards of education for the purpose of implementing a home visiting program to reduce chronic absenteeism in the school district. A local or regional board of education may submit an application for a grant under this section in a form and manner prescribed by the Commissioner of Education. (b) In awarding grants under the program, the Department of Education shall give priority to those school districts with the highest levels of chronic absenteeism. The department shall award grants to at least ten boards of education in any fiscal year that the department awards grants under the program. (c) Not later than December 31, 2028, and biennially thereafter, the department shall prepare a report on the implementation of the program. Such report shall include, but need not be limited to, an evaluation of the success of the program in each school district that received an award in either of the two prior fiscal years. In preparing such report, the department may consult with organizations that have expertise in reducing chronic absenteeism and increasing student engagement.