Defines "military-connected student" and provides advance enrollment and open enrollment school registration procedures to give the military connected student flexibility in choosing a school district.
Impact
The bill amends Title 30 of the General Laws to include provisions that specifically address the needs of military-connected students. It allows these students to be considered residents of the school system for enrollment purposes when a parent or guardian is temporarily stationed in the state due to military orders. This change facilitates smoother registration processes, eliminating the requirement for physical presence during enrollment and prioritizing the unique circumstances military families face when relocating.
Summary
House Bill 5278, known as the Military Child Act, seeks to define 'military-connected students' and to establish procedures for their enrollment in schools throughout Rhode Island. The intent of the bill is to provide military families, whose members may be ordered to relocate, with greater flexibility and easier access to education for their children by allowing them to register for school remotely. This initiative is particularly relevant in light of the frequent relocations faced by military families, which can create challenges for a child's education continuity.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 5278 appears positive, focusing on support for military families and their children's education. Proponents highlight the bill as a vital step in acknowledging the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, aiming to ease some of the burdens associated with frequent moves. However, discussions may reveal points of contention regarding resource allocation, the capacity of school districts to accommodate various students, and the potential implications for local education policies.
Contention
Notable points of contention could arise from concerns over fiscal impacts on local school districts, which may face challenges in accommodating an influx of students without additional funding or resources. Additionally, questions may be raised about the efficacy of remote registration and whether such measures might inadvertently create disparities in educational access or outcomes for non-military students. Nevertheless, the overarching goal of the bill is to support military families' educational needs, reflecting a broader commitment to serving those who serve the nation.
Makes revisions to the number, timing, and procedures to be followed when schools grades K through 12 implement fire drills, evacuation drills, and crisis response drills, designed to protect the health and safety of students.
Makes revisions to the number, timing, and procedures to be followed when schools grades K through 12 implement fire drills, evacuation drills, and crisis response drills, designed to protect the health and safety of students.
Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.
Allows for the establishment of innovation schools for the purpose of improving school performance and student achievement through increased autonomy and flexibility.
Requires all public schools to screen students for behavioral health concerns by June 30, 2025, and thereafter, all students in the third grade, eighth grade, and students who enroll from a district outside of the state.
Establishes the Failing School Choice Act and permits students at failing schools to enroll in any public school and also establishes the Rhode Island education revitalization fund to provide funding to the school choice program.
Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.
Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.