Relating to discipline management and access to telehealth mental health services in public schools.
Impact
This bill modifies the Education Code significantly to include the establishment of a campus behavior coordinator responsible for monitoring disciplinary referrals and reporting concerning behaviors. The legislation also revises existing protocols about disciplinary measures deployed by teachers and schools, promoting a focus on student well-being and aligning educational disciplinary practices with mental health considerations. By providing a guideline for schools to follow in dealing with student function as well as behavior, the bill is expected to impact students' educational experiences positively.
Summary
Senate Bill 1871 addresses discipline management and expands access to telehealth mental health services for students in public schools. The bill outlines provisions for public school districts to implement mental health services through a consortium, enhancing the existing framework of support available for student mental health. Additionally, the bill establishes protocols for obtaining parental consent prior to a student under 18 receiving mental health services, ensuring a collaborative approach to student health and wellness in educational settings.
Sentiment
The sentiment regarding SB 1871 appears generally positive among supporters who see it as a necessary step toward integrating mental health services within the educational system. Advocates believe it will help address many critical issues affecting students, particularly concerning behavioral challenges and mental health concerns. However, there is some contention from those who fear increased regulatory input could lead to an over-policing of students in educational environments.
Contention
Opponents raise concerns that while the intent of SB 1871 is to foster a supportive environment for student mental health, the implementation of control measures may inadvertently stigmatize students seeking help. Additionally, the requirement for parental consent could hinder access for students whose guardians are not involved or are in disagreement with the mental health programs provided. Overall, the bill seeks to balance providing necessary services to students while ensuring safeguards are in place for their rights and privacy.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
Section: 0012
Section: New Section
Section: 019
Section: 115
Section: 0012
Section: New Section
Section: 0012
Section: New Section
Section: 0012
Section: New Section
Section: 0081
Chapter 38. Health And Safety
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 12. Charters
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 113. Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium
Section: 0251
Section: 0251
Section: 0251
Section: 0251
Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 483. Dangerous Drugs
Section: New Section
Chapter 485. Abusable Volatile Chemicals
Section: 031
Family Code
Chapter 54. Judicial Proceedings
Section: New Section
Section: 03
Chapter 52. Proceedings Before And Including Referral To Court
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 53. Proceedings Prior To Judicial Proceedings
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 information reported through the Public Education Information Management System and to parents regarding disciplinary measures used by a public school.
Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the designation of campus behavior coordinators to serve at public school campuses and issues to be considered when removing a student from class.