Relating to placement of public school students with certain disabilities in juvenile justice alternative education programs.
Impact
This bill has significant implications for state laws governing education and juvenile justice. By modifying existing expulsion guidelines, it aims to safeguard the educational rights of students with disabilities within the juvenile justice system. The bill mandates that students facing expulsion have their cases reviewed by both the school administration and representatives from juvenile justice programs, thereby promoting collaboration and ensuring that the educational needs of these students are adequately addressed.
Summary
House Bill 349 addresses the procedures for the placement of public school students with certain disabilities in juvenile justice alternative education programs. It specifically amends the Education Code to require that expulsion processes for these students must comply with the new provisions outlined in the bill. This legislation establishes a framework for communication between school districts and juvenile justice programs when a student with a disability is proposed for expulsion, ensuring that all parties involved can participate in discussions about the student’s educational needs and potential placements.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 349 may arise from its procedural requirements. Critics could argue that mandating additional evaluations and meetings may burden school districts and juvenile justice programs, potentially leading to delays in the expulsion process. Supporters, however, contend that these requirements are necessary to prevent inappropriate placements and ensure that the unique needs of students with disabilities are prioritized, especially in sensitive circumstances such as potential expulsion.
Implementation
The legislation is set to take effect in the 2009-2010 school year, contingent upon receiving a two-thirds majority vote from the legislature for immediate effect. Should the bill not reach that threshold, it will be in effect starting September 1, 2009. This timeline allows for the necessary adjustments within both educational and juvenile justice systems to accommodate the new requirements brought forth by HB 349.
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 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 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 primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.