Pupil discrimination and private school participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.
Impact
If enacted, SB505 will significantly affect the administration of private schools within the state's parental choice program by imposing similar anti-discrimination requirements that public schools must follow. Private schools will have to adhere to these guidelines, potentially transforming their admissions and operational policies. The bill also allows the Department of Public Instruction to assess penalties against private school officials for violations, reflecting a broader commitment to equal treatment of all students regardless of their gender identity or expression.
Summary
Senate Bill 505 aims to extend the existing pupil anti-discrimination laws to include private schools that participate in various parental choice programs in Wisconsin. Specifically, this bill seeks to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity and gender expression, thereby aligning the regulations for private institutions with those already enforced in public schools. The bill mandates that both public and private schools develop written policies and procedures to address complaints and ensure compliance with this anti-discrimination framework.
Contention
There are notable points of contention regarding the implementation of SB505, particularly concerning religious exemptions and traditional values. Opponents may argue that the bill could infringe upon the autonomy of religious-based schools that choose to maintain admission criteria based on traditional definitions of gender. Additionally, discussions surrounding the adequacy of the enforcement mechanisms and the potential impact on school operations may arise, leading to a debate about balancing non-discrimination with the rights of private and religious institutions.
Pupil discrimination and private school participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.
Increasing the per pupil payments in parental choice programs and the Special Needs Scholarship program and the per pupil payments made to independent charter schools and increasing the revenue ceiling for school districts. (FE)
Designating athletic sports and teams operated or sponsored by public schools or private schools participating in a parental choice program based on the sex of the participants.
Designating athletic sports and teams operated or sponsored by public schools or private schools participating in a parental choice program based on the sex of the participants.