Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 581 - OREGON DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 581, is the primary body of regulations for the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). These rules are crucial for implementing the state's public education policies, academic standards, and various programs from kindergarten through high school, as well as some specialized areas. The State Board of Education (SBE) is responsible for setting these educational policies and standards for Oregon's public school districts.
The ODE's overarching responsibilities, reflected in these rules, include:
Implementing state standards and requirements for elementary and secondary public schools.
Guiding school improvement efforts.
Developing and implementing Oregon's statewide student assessment system.
Administering the State School Fund, which is the largest revenue source for local school districts.
Overseeing specific programs like special education, the Oregon School for the Deaf, regional programs for children with disabilities, and education programs for youth in correctional facilities.
Setting test standards and graduation requirements for statewide uniformity.
Given the vast scope of education, Chapter 581 is broken down into numerous divisions, each addressing specific areas. Here's a general overview of the types of regulations you would find:
I. General Administration and Foundational Rules:
Division 1 - Procedural Rules: Covers the basic administrative procedures of the ODE, including rulemaking processes, public records requests, and general agency operations.
Division 2 - Accountability Reporting Advisory Committee: Rules related to how school districts are held accountable and how data is reported.
Division 22 - Standards for Public Elementary and Secondary Schools: This is a fundamental division that sets the core standards that all public K-12 schools in Oregon must meet. It covers a wide range of areas, including curriculum, instruction, student support services, school facilities, health services, and more. This division is often subject to updates based on legislative changes and educational best practices.
Division 23 - School Finance: Regulations related to the State School Fund, local district budgeting, and other financial aspects of public education.
II. Specific Educational Programs and Services:
Division 15 - Special Education: This is a highly detailed division that implements state and federal laws (like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act - IDEA) regarding the identification, evaluation, and provision of services for students with disabilities. It covers individualized education programs (IEPs), due process, parental rights, regional programs, and more.
Division 16 - Oregon School for the Deaf: Specific rules for the operation and educational services of the Oregon School for the Deaf.
Division 17 - Strategic Investments: Rules for various strategic investment programs aimed at improving educational outcomes.
Division 24 - Standards for Education Service Districts (ESDs): Regulations governing the operations and services provided by ESDs, which support local school districts.
Division 26 - Public Charter Schools: Rules specific to the establishment, operation, and oversight of public charter schools in Oregon.
Division 27 - School Facilities Programs: Regulations related to school building construction, renovation, and safety.
Division 28 - Connecting Oregon Schools: Rules related to internet access and technology in schools.
Division 29 - Mental and Physical Health and Safety: Specific rules regarding student health services, safety plans, and other health-related aspects in schools.
Division 30 - Standards for Approved Recovery Schools: Rules for schools designed to support students recovering from substance use disorders.
Division 37 - Educational Assistants: Regulations concerning the roles and qualifications of educational assistants in schools.
Division 45 - Private Vocational Schools: Rules for the approval and oversight of private vocational schools.
Division 51 - School Food and Nutrition Services: Regulations for school meal programs, including federal nutrition standards.
Division 53 - School Bus Driver Training, Licensing, and School Bus Standards: Comprehensive rules for student transportation, ensuring safety and compliance.
Division 55 - Sexual Conduct Investigations: Procedures and standards for investigating allegations of sexual misconduct in educational settings.
III. Personnel and Licensing:
Division 5 - Minimum Pay for Substitute Teachers: Sets minimum wage requirements for substitute teachers. (Note: While some OARs related to teacher licensing are in Chapter 584, ODE's Chapter 581 may reference or contain rules impacting personnel).
Key Aspects and Importance:
Chapter 581 ensures:
Equitable Access: Strives to ensure all Oregon students have access to quality education, regardless of location or background.
Accountability: Establishes standards and reporting requirements for school districts.
Student Well-being: Addresses health, safety, and support services for students.
Program Effectiveness: Provides guidelines for various educational programs, from special education to career and technical education.
Compliance: Ensures adherence to both state and federal education laws.
How to Access Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 581:
The most reliable sources for the full, current text of the Oregon Administrative Rules are:
Oregon Secretary of State's Office (Oregon Administrative Rules website): This is the official and most authoritative source. You can navigate directly to Chapter 581
Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Official Website: The ODE website (has a dedicated "Rules and Policies" or "State Rules and Statutes" section where you can find direct links to OAR Chapter 581 and information on proposed rule changes and public hearing schedules.
It's important to always check the most current version of the rules, as the Oregon Department of Education, under the guidance of the State Board of Education, frequently updates them to respond to new legislation, educational research, and societal needs.
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