Section 161.210 - State board may modify or waive rules, when1. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the state board of education is hereby granted authority to waive or modify any administrative rule adopted by the state board or policy implemented by the department of elementary and secondary education. School districts may submit applications for a waiver or modification authorized pursuant to this section. Each application shall include a written request by the school district or school districts and shall demonstrate that the intent of the rule or policy can be addressed in a more effective, efficient or economical manner or that the waiver or modification is necessary to implement a specific plan for improved student performance and school improvement. Prior to an application for waiver, the school district shall hold a public hearing regarding such waiver.2. The state board of education may grant waivers or modifications for a school district or school districts that successfully demonstrate the ability to address the intent of the rule or policy in a more effective, efficient or economical manner or when the waivers or modifications are demonstrated to be necessary to stimulate innovation or improve student performance, provided that the waiver or modification is based upon sound educational practices, does not endanger the health and safety of students or staff, and does not compromise equal opportunity for learning. Approved waivers or modifications shall remain in effect for a period not to exceed three school years and may be renewed by the state board of education upon application by the school district or school districts.3. This section shall not be construed to allow the state board of education to authorize the waiver of any statutory requirements relating to teacher certification or teacher tenure.L. 1996 H.B. 1301 & 1298 § 12