Relating to allowing parents and guardians to elect for a student to repeat or retake a course or grade.
Impact
The implementation of SB1697 will modify the Texas Education Code by affirmatively establishing parental options for student retention. School districts and open-enrollment charter schools are mandated to support these decisions, ensuring that retention aligns with the academic readiness of students. The framework for a retention committee is included, which must convene if there is disagreement regarding a retention decision. This structured process aims to facilitate discussion about the merits of such decisions while respecting parental authority.
Summary
SB1697 aims to provide parents and guardians the authority to decide if a student should repeat a course or grade, addressing retention in educational settings. The bill allows for students in prekindergarten through eighth grade to be retained at the request of their parents or guardians. This provision highlights a shift towards more parental control in educational decisions, particularly concerning students who may need additional support to succeed at higher academic levels.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1697 appears to be favorable, garnering unanimous support during voting with no opposing votes in both the Senate and House. However, it is anticipated that there may still be concerns from educators about the implications of increased parental control on curriculum standards and educational outcomes. Advocates argue that this law empowers parents to play a more active role in their children's education, which could enhance individual student success.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the effectiveness of retention as a strategy for improving academic performance. Critics might argue that merely allowing students to repeat grades does not necessarily address underlying educational challenges. This approach also raises questions about resources and strategies that should be employed to support students who are at risk of falling behind, fostering a debate on whether retention or alternative interventions would be more beneficial in the long run.
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.
Relating to a public school student's transition from an alternative education program to a regular educational environment, including parental rights related to that transition, and the admission of certain students with a criminal or disciplinary history.
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 requiring a school district or open-enrollment charter school to report data regarding certain disciplinary or law enforcement actions taken against students.
Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting certain instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity; authorizing a civil penalty.
Relating to a pilot program operated by certain public or private primary or secondary or open-enrollment charter schools in Webb County concerning searches and drug testing of students with parental consent and certain disciplinary measures and other procedures that may arise from such a search or test.
Relating to establishing a pilot program in designated public high schools in certain municipalities for placement of students in Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs as an alternative to placement in disciplinary or juvenile justice alternative education programs.