Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2547

Introduced
9/6/24  

Caption

In charter schools, further providing for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2547 would have significant implications for the framework governing education in Pennsylvania. By ensuring that cyber charter schools are subject to more consistent regulations, the bill aims to elevate educational standards and accountability. The retroactive application of amendments to the provisions is intended to reinforce compliance, helping to ensure that students enrolled in cyber schools benefit from the same quality and oversight as those attending brick-and-mortar institutions.

Summary

House Bill 2547, introduced by Representative Schweyer on September 6, 2024, seeks to amend the Public School Code of 1949. The primary focus of the legislation is on charter schools, aiming to clarify and expand the applicability of existing educational laws and regulations to include provisions relating specifically to cyber charter schools. By doing so, the bill intends to ensure that cyber charters comply with the same rigorous standards applicable to traditional public schools, addressing gaps that may impact the quality of education students receive through these alternative schooling options.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 2547 among legislators and stakeholders appears mixed. Supporters argue that the bill enhances accountability and ensures that all forms of education maintain a consistent standard, promoting fairness in educational quality. Conversely, some critics raise concerns about the potential for increased bureaucratic oversight, fearing that it might stifle innovation and flexibility that are often central to the success of charter schools. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about the balance between regulation and autonomy in education.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding HB 2547 include discussions on the adequacy and reach of state oversight. Advocates for the bill believe that it addresses critical deficiencies in how cyber charter schools are regulated, pointing out past issues of transparency and accountability. Detractors, however, may highlight that the increased scrutiny could lead to unnecessary restrictions on schools’ operational freedom, potentially hindering their ability to provide tailored educational experiences that cater to diverse student needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1266

In charter schools, further providing for funding for charter schools, for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA HB722

In charter schools, further providing for funding for charter schools, for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB1318

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in terms and courses of study, further providing for subjects of instruction and flag code and providing for handwriting instruction required; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB354

In charter schools, further providing for funding for charter schools, for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA HB1203

In grounds and buildings, providing for automated external defibrillator placement, inspection, maintenance and plan; in school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB512

In grounds and buildings, providing for automated external defibrillator placement, inspection, maintenance and plan; in school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB645

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in terms and courses of study, further providing for subjects of instruction and flag code and providing for handwriting instruction required; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB801

In certification of teachers, further providing for teacher

PA SB620

In grounds and buildings, providing for automated external defibrillator placement, inspection, maintenance and plan; in school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA HB447

In charter schools, further providing for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations relating to cyber charter schools.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.