Modifies provisions governing school days using alternative methods of instruction
Impact
The amendments made by HB 1270 significantly alter the traditional approach to make-up days for school closures due to inclement weather. By allowing AMI, the bill potentially reduces the number of in-person make-up days required for students. The districts must demonstrate that their AMI plans will not adversely impact teaching and learning, which may prompt schools to enhance their online instruction capabilities. Furthermore, it sets specific maximum hours that can be used for AMI, signaling a structured implementation approach.
Summary
House Bill 1270 proposes changes to the existing regulations governing school districts' response to inclement weather and other emergency circumstances. Specifically, it allows districts to implement alternative methods of instruction (AMI) if schools are closed. The new provisions will enable schools to notify students and parents about daily closures and the implementation of AMI, ensuring that education continues despite interruptive events. This bill seeks to introduce more flexibility in managing educational delivery during emergencies while adhering to minimum session hour requirements.
Contention
Some points of contention surrounding HB 1270 include debates over the efficacy of AMI compared to in-person learning, particularly for younger students or those requiring individual support. While proponents argue that AMI represents a necessary evolution in educational practice, critics express concerns that reliance on remote instruction may exacerbate inequalities in educational access, especially for students without reliable internet access. Additionally, stipulating a total cap on AMI hours can be seen as a limitation for districts grappling with frequent and severe weather interruptions, leaving stakeholders discussing the balance between flexibility and accountability in educational standards.