Relating to the provision of courses in behavioral modification by disciplinary alternative education programs and juvenile justice alternative education programs.
Impact
If enacted, HB 289 will amend certain sections of the Texas Education Code, specifically those relating to the establishment and operation of disciplinary alternative education programs and juvenile justice programs. The requirement to include behavioral modification courses is anticipated to improve student outcomes by focusing on personal development alongside academic achievement. This legislative change reflects an understanding of the complexities facing students in these alternate environments, pushing for a more holistic approach to their education.
Summary
House Bill 289 aims to enhance educational programs for students involved in disciplinary alternative education and juvenile justice alternative education programs in Texas. The bill mandates that all school districts provide courses in behavioral modification as part of their disciplinary programs. These courses must be taught by qualified instructors with at least a bachelor's degree in behavioral science. This legislative measure is intended to address the behavioral and educational needs of students who are removed from their regular classrooms, ensuring that they receive not only academic instruction but also support aimed at modifying behavior and improving self-discipline.
Contention
Discussions around HB 289 highlight the need for a balance between maintaining discipline in educational settings and providing support for at-risk students. Proponents of the bill argue that incorporating behavioral modification into educational curricula will better equip students to reintegrate into traditional schooling and society after their time in alternative programs. However, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of resources and quality of instruction in these specialized courses. Critics may question whether the state can effectively monitor and maintain standards in these programs, given the varying capabilities of local school districts.
Relating to procedures for the suspension, expulsion, or placement in a disciplinary alternative education program or juvenile justice alternative education program of a public school student enrolled in a school district.
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 a public school student's transition from an alternative education program to a regular classroom and the admission of certain students with a criminal or disciplinary history.
Relating to a psychological assessment of homicidal risk of a public school student following the student's expulsion or placement in a disciplinary alternative education program for certain conduct.
Relating to the establishment of the Education Savings Account Program to allow certain children to use public money to pursue educational alternatives to public schools and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.
Relating to the establishment of the Education Savings Account Program to allow certain children to use public money to pursue educational alternatives to public schools and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.