Relating to the expulsion of a public school student for engaging in conduct that constitutes certain offenses.
Impact
The enactment of SB1872 is expected to significantly alter the landscape of student discipline within Texas public schools. With standardized definitions of prohibiting conduct leading to expulsion, the bill aims to ensure that students who engage in dangerous behaviors are held accountable. In practice, this could mean more consistent consequences across different school districts, which could lead to a decrease in incidents of violence and improve overall school safety. However, it could also lead to criticism surrounding the potential for disproportionate impacts on certain student populations, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Summary
SB1872 aims to amend the Texas Education Code regarding the expulsion of public school students for certain offenses. The bill updates the specific conduct that justifies expulsion, including various serious offenses such as aggravated assault, murder, and substance-related violations. The legislation also includes provisions for notifying law enforcement when such conduct occurs within or around school properties, enhancing safety protocols within educational institutions. By outlining clear parameters for expulsion, SB1872 seeks to create a more standardized response to severe student behavior that threatens the safety of students and school personnel.
Sentiment
Discussions around SB1872 reflect a mixture of support and concern. Proponents, including many educators and parents, view the bill as a necessary measure to maintain discipline and ensure a safe learning environment for all students. They argue that a clear framework for expulsion will help keep harmful actors from disrupting classroom settings. Conversely, critics raise alarms over the implications for students’ futures, fearing that expanding grounds for expulsion without appropriate support systems could drive vulnerable students further away from educational opportunities, potentially leading to negative life outcomes.
Contention
Key points of contention surrounding SB1872 revolve around the balance between maintaining safety and protecting student rights. Critics are particularly concerned about how the bill may affect students with behavioral issues or those requiring special education services, arguing that the punitive measures might be more detrimental than beneficial. Additionally, the bill raises questions regarding the adequacy of support systems in place for students who might require intervention rather than expulsion, spotlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of behavioral issues in schools.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Family Code
Chapter 54. Judicial Proceedings
Section: New Section
Chapter 53. Proceedings Prior To Judicial Proceedings
Section: New Section
Section: 03
Chapter 52. Proceedings Before And Including Referral To Court
Section: New Section
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 483. Dangerous Drugs
Section: 003
Section: 001
Section: New Section
Chapter 485. Abusable Volatile Chemicals
Section: 031
Penal Code
Chapter 22. Assaultive Offenses
Section: New Section
Chapter 36. Bribery And Corrupt Influence
Section: 06
Chapter 42. Disorderly Conduct And Related Offenses
Section: New Section
Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
Section: 11
Chapter 19. Criminal Homicide
Section: 02
Section: 05
Chapter 46. Weapons
Section: 02
Chapter 28. Arson, Criminal Mischief, And Other Property Damage Or Destruction
Relating to the removal of a public school student from the classroom for engaging in conduct involving the possession of certain prohibited substances.
Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the eligibility of a child for a determinate sentence for engaging in delinquent conduct that constitutes certain organized criminal activity.
Education: financing; limitations on mills levied for school operating purposes; revise. Amends secs. 1211 & 1211a of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1211 & 380.1211a).