Alabama House Bill HB497

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/15/22
• Refer: 3/15/22

Caption

Education, public K-12 schools, to require tutoring for K-3 students who receive failing grades within the first nine weeks of school

Impact

The bill aims to enhance educational outcomes for struggling students by ensuring they receive specialized support in a timely manner. It necessitates that local education agencies maintain regular oversight through an accelerated learning committee, which will track progress and modify educational plans as needed. With the requirement for at least 10 hours of additional instruction provided either individually or in small groups, it is designed to foster better learning environments and promote student success. The State Board of Education is tasked with creating guidelines to help local agencies implement these standards effectively.

Summary

House Bill 497 mandates the provision of accelerated instruction for students in kindergarten through third grade who receive failing grades in a subject during the first nine weeks of school. The bill requires local education agencies to form committees for students needing additional help, which will develop personalized educational plans aimed at enabling these students to reach appropriate academic levels by the end of the semester. The bill delineates specific requirements for the accelerated instruction, including the duration and frequency of tutoring sessions.

Contention

Some points of contention around HB 497 may arise regarding the definition of 'accelerated instruction' and the resources available to meet the bill's mandates. Critics might express concerns about the adequate training of staff to provide effective tutoring, especially in the context of varying funding levels across different school districts. There could also be apprehensions about how this bill may affect students' participation in non-academic activities, considering that it restricts removal from standard curriculum or physical activities based solely on failing grades. Overall, the balance between providing necessary support and maintaining a holistic educational experience could be a focal point in discussions surrounding this legislation.