Colorado’s New Law on Shortened School Days: What School Leaders Need to Know

By Elizabeth Friel

This summer, Governor Polis signed HB24-1063 (Addressing Abbreviated School Days) into law, marking a significant step in addressing the use of shortened school day schedules for students with disabilities in Colorado. The new statute amends the state’s Exceptional Children’s Educational Act by adding Colo. Rev. Stat. § 22-20-123, aimed at ensuring students with disabilities receive a full educational experience whenever possible. 

What Does the Law Say? 

The new law defines an “abbreviated school day,” more commonly known as “shortened school day schedules,” as any school day where a student with disabilities receives fewer instructional hours than their peers in the same grade and district. If a child is placed on a shortened day schedule, the administrative unit must develop a detailed plan with clear outcomes and a step-by-step process for gradually returning the student to a full-time schedule. While the law doesn’t define “outcomes” or “stages,” it’s essential that Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Section 504 teams tailor these plans to meet each student’s unique needs, ensuring their right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). 

Additionally, the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) will provide annual training to districts on the implications of shortened school days and how to maintain compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504. 

What’s Coming Next? 

Starting July 1, 2026, and each year thereafter, CDE will require school districts to report the number of students placed on shortened school days, including demographic information. This data will be made publicly available on CDE’s website and shared with the state legislature. 

CDE is also tasked with developing a policy that outlines how the new law applies to everyday school activities like attendance, discipline, IEP decisions, and record-keeping. Although the statute provides no deadline for this policy, districts will eventually be required to adopt and implement it. 

As school leaders, it’s crucial to work closely with your teams to ensure compliance with the new law. The Caplan & Earnest Education Law Team is available to advise on complying with the new law.