Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of visiting an institution of higher education.
Impact
The bill stipulates that a school district may excuse a student for up to two days in their junior year and four days in their senior year to visit accredited institutions of higher education. Importantly, the school district is required to adopt a policy for when such absences will be excused, as well as a procedure to verify the student's visit. The implementation of this policy is set to begin with the 2025-2026 school year, signalling a shift in how schools can support students in preparing for their futures.
Summary
SB2871 is a bill introduced in the Texas Legislature that aims to amend the Education Code with respect to excused absences for public school students. Specifically, it allows school districts to excuse students from attending school for the purpose of visiting an institution of higher education during their junior and senior years. This initiative encourages students to explore post-secondary education opportunities and assess their interest in attending colleges or universities.
Contention
While the bill presents a structured approach for students to engage with higher education, it may invoke some concerns regarding its impact on school attendance and curriculum delivery. Critics may argue that even limited days off could interfere with student learning, while supporters contend that the opportunities for campus visits can significantly influence a student's decision-making regarding their education pathway. Ultimately, the level of acceptance for the bill will depend on the balance between encouraging educational pursuits and ensuring consistent school attendance.