72-7113. Transfer of territory; mediation process. - Kansas Statutes

72-7113

Chapter 72.--SCHOOLS Article 71.--TRANSFER OF SCHOOL DISTRICT TERRITORY

      72-7113.   Transfer of territory; mediationprocess.(a) The state board, in accordance with this section, shallimplementprocedures to allow districtsto discuss any proposal for the transfer of territory pursuant to K.S.A.72-7101 et seq., andamendments thereto, through a mediation process.

      (b)   The procedures implemented by the state board shall ensure that anymediationis conducted by aqualified and impartial mediator who is trained in effective mediationtechniques. The stateboard shall maintain a list of individuals who are qualified mediators.

      (c)   Any district proposing a transfer of territory first shall seek anagreement totransfer the territory.If an agreement is not obtained, the proposal for the transfer shall be abandoned or the districtseeking the transfer shall file a written request with the state board for theappointment of amediator.

      (d)   When a request to appoint a mediator is received, the state board shallappoint a mediator andshall notify the school districts of the appointment of the mediator.

      (e)   Each session in the mediation process shall be scheduled in a timelymanner andshall be held ina location that is convenient to the districts. Each district involved in aproposed transfer ofterritory shall be required to participate in at least one mediation session.The district requesting the transfer shall bear the cost of the mediationprocess.

      (f)   If mediation fails to result in an agreement between the districts, apetition for transfer ofterritory may be submitted to the state board pursuant to K.S.A. 72-7108, andamendmentsthereto.

      History:   L. 2004, ch. 13, § 1; Apr. 8.