Alabama House Bill HB457

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/8/22

Caption

Education, public K-12 schools, prohibits use of certain development programs for students

Impact

If enacted, HB 457 would bring significant changes to the manner in which development programs are constructed and delivered in Alabama's public K-12 schools. It limits the resources and frameworks available to educators and school counselors, thus potentially narrowing the range of developmental guidance provided to students. Critics of the bill may argue that such restrictions could hinder the ability of educators to address students' diverse needs and develop well-rounded educational experiences based on recognized competencies.

Summary

House Bill 457 aims to prohibit public K-12 school officials, teachers, and school counselors in Alabama from implementing or maintaining any development program that uses standards set by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). The bill specifically restricts the use of ASCA's National Standards and competency indicators, which are utilized to shape students' perceptions of various concepts, values, attitudes, and beliefs throughout their educational journey. The goal of the bill is to prevent educational frameworks that may be seen as directing students toward specific beliefs or attitudes by the end of 12th grade.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HB 457, primarily regarding the perceived implications for educational autonomy and professional standards in counseling. Proponents assert that the bill is necessary to maintain educational neutrality and avoid introducing biases into student development programs. However, opponents may view the bill as an overreach by the state that restricts educators' professional judgment and limits opportunities for students to engage with a broad spectrum of ideas and values critical for their development in a diverse society.