Texas House Bill HB1949

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to establishing a pilot program in designated public high schools in certain municipalities for placement of students in Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs as an alternative to placement in disciplinary or juvenile justice alternative education programs.

Impact

The program specifically targets high schools located in municipalities with a high percentage of youths who have not graduated high school, thus focusing on areas with elevated risks for student dropout. This initiative seeks to engage students in structured programs that can offer guidance, discipline, and skills development through the JROTC structure. Additionally, it aims to evaluate the potential benefits of such a program in reducing dropout rates, improving behavior, and enhancing academic performance among at-risk students.

Summary

House Bill 1949 establishes a pilot program aimed at providing an alternative option for students facing disciplinary actions in designated public high schools. This program allows students to be placed into Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs instead of traditional disciplinary or juvenile justice alternative education programs. The intent is to improve educational outcomes for students who may be at risk of dropping out or facing severe disciplinary actions due to behavioral issues.

Contention

However, the bill may face scrutiny regarding its implementation and efficacy. Opponents might raise concerns about the appropriateness of placing students, particularly those with serious behavioral issues or special needs, into military-style programs. Questions surrounding the adequacy of support systems within JROTC for such students and how well these programs can address individual educational needs will likely be key points of contention. Furthermore, the expiration of the subchapter in 2019 raises questions about the long-term commitment to sustaining the program beyond its pilot phase.