Sec. 1. (a) This chapter applies to a teacher in a school corporation (as defined in IC 20-18-2-16(a)).

     (b) A contract with a teacher may be canceled immediately in the manner set forth in sections 2 through 4 of this chapter for any of the following reasons:

(1) Immorality.

(2) Insubordination, which means a willful refusal to obey the state school laws or reasonable rules adopted for the governance of the school building or the school corporation.

(3) Repeated ineffective performance, as determined by the school corporation.

(4) Neglect of duty.

(5) A conviction of an offense listed in IC 20-28-5-8(c).

(6) Other good or just cause.

     (c) In addition to the reasons set forth in subsection (b), a probationary teacher’s contract may be canceled for any reason relevant to the school corporation’s interest in the manner set forth in sections 2 through 4 of this chapter.

     (d) After June 30, 2012, the cancellation of teacher’s contracts due to a justifiable decrease in the number of teaching positions shall be determined on the basis of performance rather than seniority. In cases where teachers are placed in the same performance category, any of the items in IC 20-28-9-1.5(b) may be considered.

     (e) Only the governing body may terminate, cancel, or otherwise refuse to renew a contract of a superintendent or assistant superintendent. Notice of the contract cancellation or the refusal to renew the individual’s contract must be provided in the manner provided in IC 20-28-8-3(a).

As added by P.L.90-2011, SEC.31. Amended by P.L.286-2013, SEC.87; P.L.233-2015, SEC.208; P.L.239-2015, SEC.4; P.L.200-2023, SEC.14.