Expulsions; authorize aggregate reporting by State Department of Education of data relating to.
The bill specifies that the system will require school districts and charter schools to report details about each expulsion within a specified timeframe. This will include key information such as the student's age, school, reason for expulsion, and the duration of the expulsion. By implementing this law, the state seeks to create a comprehensive and centralized database that effectively monitors school disciplinary actions while maintaining privacy protections for students involved. The goal is to provide relevant information to schools without compromising student confidentiality.
House Bill 1194 aims to amend Section 37-15-6 of the Mississippi Code by authorizing the State Department of Education to develop a central reporting system for public school expulsions. This new system is designed to collect and maintain data regarding expulsions, ensuring that while aggregate data can be reported, there will be strict confidentiality surrounding students' personally identifiable information. The intent of this bill is to create a mechanism for public and private school officials to be informed of any expulsions that may affect a student's enrollment in their institution.
Overall sentiment around HB 1194 appears to be positive among educational stakeholders who see the value in having a reporting system that can aid in ensuring safe learning environments. The bill received unanimous support during voting, passing in the Senate with 52 votes in favor and none against, signaling strong legislative backing. There seems to be a consensus on the necessity of tracking expulsion data for better decision-making concerning student admissions across the state.
Despite the clear intentions of the bill, some points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and the details surrounding the types of data reported. Concerns could also emerge in recalibrating how schools assess and manage disciplinary issues, and whether the stipulations effectively balance the need for accountability with student privacy. Ensuring that the central reporting system does not become a punitive tool rather than a constructive resource will be critical as the bill takes effect on July 1, 2024.