A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the protected speech and expression rights of students enrolled in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools and the duties of the department of education, and providing civil penalties.

SF 2300 requires Iowa public school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to comply with federal religious expression standards. It mandates annual distribution of U.S. Department of Education guidance on constitutionally protected prayer and religious expression to all school staff, online publication of this guidance, and development of professional development programs for educators. Schools must adopt model policies ensuring compliance and certify annual adherence to the state education department. Non-compliant schools face civil penalties of at least $5,000 per violation, with affected students or clubs able to pursue legal action for discrimination against religious, political, or ideological speech.