Relating to state requirements for teacher training and student instruction regarding certain subjects in public schools.
Impact
If SB1309 is enacted, it would notably affect the landscape of teacher training requirements and what districts are obliged to instruct students on. The removal of mandated training in areas like child abuse and bullying raises questions about the preparedness of teachers and school staff to deal with complex social issues that students face today. Critics may argue that eliminating these requirements runs the risk of leaving school personnel unprepared to adequately safeguard students or support them in critical areas of their lives.
Summary
Senate Bill 1309 seeks to amend various sections of the Education Code concerning the requirements for teacher training and student instruction in public schools. The primary focus of this legislation is to relieve school districts from mandatory training and instructional requirements surrounding several sensitive and important issues, notably internet safety, bullying, child abuse, teen dating violence, and school bus transportation safety. By prohibiting the requirements for these specific training programs and instructional topics, the bill directs attention to the autonomy of school districts in determining their educational priorities.
Contention
The contention surrounding SB1309 arises from the debate between local autonomy and state mandates within the educational framework. Proponents of the bill argue that it allows schools to focus on their unique needs and circumstances without the burden of state-imposed training requirements. On the other hand, opponents may express concern that weakening training requirements in vital areas could lead to a lack of support for students confronting serious issues, thereby undermining the overall safety and well-being of the student population.
Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for certain public school students.
Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for public school students; authorizing a civil remedy.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.
Relating to accelerated and supplemental instruction provided to public school students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments and access to criminal history record information for certain tutors providing that instruction.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.
Relating to local school health advisory councils and instruction regarding human sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity provided by public schools.
Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.
Relating to dyslexia evaluations and services for public school students, the provision of services for students with dyslexia and related disorders, and certain parental notice regarding the rights of parents of public school students with disabilities.