Hawaii Senate Bill SR23

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Expanding The Jurisdiction Of All Public Schools To Include A Quarter-mile Radius Surrounding Each School.

Impact

The potential expansion of jurisdiction aims to enhance student safety by allowing schools to take action against bullying incidents that occur off-campus. Proponents argue that this would create a more supportive educational environment where students feel secure not only while on school premises but also in the areas immediately surrounding their schools. The resolution reflects a growing awareness of the challenges students face beyond the classroom, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to address bullying.

Summary

Senate Resolution 23 (SR23) proposes that the Department of Education conduct a study to evaluate the feasibility of expanding public schools' jurisdiction to include a quarter-mile radius surrounding each school. The resolution is based on the recognition that students often face bullying and harassment beyond school grounds, which impedes their ability to learn and thrive. By extending jurisdiction, school administrators would be empowered to intervene in incidents that occur in close proximity to school campuses.

Conclusion

This resolution is a call to initiate further dialogue on student safety and support within the education system. It emphasizes the importance of creating a safe learning environment, while also bringing to light the complexities involved in extending school authority. As the Department of Education prepares to conduct this feasibility study, the resulting report could lead to subsequent legislation aimed at redefining the relationship between schools and surrounding communities.

Contention

However, the proposal may face concerns regarding overstepping boundaries and infringing on personal liberties. Critics may argue that schools extending their authority into the surrounding neighborhoods could lead to conflicts with local community norms and family privacy. There are questions about the implications of school intervention on community relationships and the additional responsibilities placed on school administrators to manage behaviors occurring off-school grounds.