Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB45

Introduced
3/7/23  

Caption

In pupils and attendance, further providing for attendance policy at charter, regional charter and cyber charter schools.

Impact

The impact of HB 45 on state laws includes a potential reevaluation of existing attendance regulations at charter and cyber charter schools. By formalizing these attendance policies, the bill could lead to an enhanced focus on student engagement metrics, thus aiming to reduce absenteeism. This may also influence how the state allocates funding to schools, as attendance figures are often tied to financial resources. The bill's focus on attendance may also lead to additional support mechanisms for schools to address common attendance-related challenges.

Summary

House Bill 45 aims to further define and refine the attendance policies for charter, regional charter, and cyber charter schools. This bill addresses the criteria for student attendance and the implications for truancy and dropout rates. It reflects a broader effort to standardize attendance-related policies across various educational institutions, ensuring that they adhere to specific guidelines that can enhance overall educational outcomes. The bill seeks to provide clarity on attendance metrics, which may influence resources allocated to schools based on attendance rates.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 45 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with support from educators and policymakers who believe that clearer attendance policies may lead to improved student outcomes. However, there are concerns among some groups about the implications this could have for autonomy in charter and regional charter schools, where flexibility in governance is often a key appeal. The sentiment is marked by a desire for reform that balances regulatory oversight with the unique needs of charter schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions about HB 45 center around the degree of regulation imposed on charter schools and concerns about a one-size-fits-all approach to attendance policies. Critics argue that while standardization can be beneficial, it risks undermining the flexibility that charter schools need to operate effectively in different communities. Additionally, some stakeholders express worries that increased regulations could inadvertently penalize schools that serve at-risk populations, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions that recognize the diverse challenges faced by various educational institutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1554

In pupils and attendance, further providing for attendance policy at charter, regional charter and cyber charter schools.

PA HB338

In pupils and attendance, further providing for attendance policy at charter, regional charter and cyber charter schools.

PA HB1414

In pupils and attendance, providing for use of geolocation system for attendance in cyber school program.

PA HB2307

In pupils and attendance, further providing for actual cost of tuition and maintenance of certain exceptional children in the four chartered schools for education of the deaf and the blind; and making a repeal.

PA HB431

In pupils and attendance, further providing for immunization required and penalty.

PA SB886

In pupils and attendance, further providing for definitions and providing for mental health days.

PA HB447

In pupils and attendance, further providing for immunization required and penalty.

PA SB781

In pupils and attendance, further providing for definitions and providing for mental health days.

PA HB1648

In pupils and attendance, further providing for definitions and providing for mental health days.

PA HB1198

In pupils and attendance, providing for attendance at intermediate units.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.