Remove opt in requirement for student contact information on ACT test
Impact
By amending existing laws, SB480 aligns itself with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, ensuring that any sharing of student data is done with respect to privacy rights. This legislative action could significantly change the landscape of how student data is utilized, fostering better communication between K-12 schools and postsecondary education sectors. This move is aimed at empowering educational institutions to utilize student data effectively while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.
Summary
SB480 aims to optimize how student data is managed and shared within the education system in Montana, specifically regarding the interaction with postsecondary institutions. The bill proposes removing the requirement for students to opt-in to the sharing of their personal information when taking statewide assessments that double as college entrance exams. This legislative change is intended to increase awareness and access to educational opportunities for students, potentially enhancing their chances for scholarships and admissions into higher education.
Sentiment
Sentiment around SB480 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward fostering better educational opportunities and accessibility for students, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that might deter students from engaging with potential postsecondary pathways. Meanwhile, there may be concerns among some groups about the implications of data sharing, especially regarding the privacy of sensitive student information and the autonomy of families in deciding what data should be shared.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between increasing accessibility to educational resources and the potential risks to student privacy. Critics of the bill may argue that the removal of the opt-in requirement undermines parental control over their children's information. The effectiveness of this policy change will likely hinge on the mechanisms implemented to protect student data and ensure that it is used solely for educational advancement, not for profit or other purposes.
Updates provisions relating to dignity for all students including establishing the student suicide prevention act which includes curriculum and teacher training requirements designed to prevent student suicide with a focus on LGBTQ students.