Oklahoma House Bill HB2180

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/22/23
• Engrossed: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/11/23
• Enrolled: 5/26/23
• Passed: 5/26/23

Caption

Virtual charter schools; modifying attendance requirements for virtual charter school alternative education programs; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2180 would directly influence the operational procedures of virtual charter schools, emphasizing the need for effective attendance tracking and intervention for students failing to meet prescribed attendance criteria. The legislation compels schools to implement attendance policies that not only promote student engagement but also outline consequences for non-compliance. These changes could lead to a more rigorous educational framework within charter schools and impact the overall landscape of public education in Oklahoma, as these schools must adhere more closely to enhanced state regulations regarding attendance.

Summary

House Bill 2180 proposes significant amendments to the regulations governing virtual charter schools in Oklahoma, particularly concerning student attendance. The bill modifies existing attendance requirements for virtual charter school alternative education programs and introduces a framework for better attendance accountability. Specifically, it requires schools to establish clear attendance policies and defines conditions under which a student may be considered present for the purposes of funding and educational accountability. This bill aims to enhance the educational experience and ensure that students remain engaged in their studies to achieve academic success.

Sentiment

The reception of HB 2180 appears to be generally supportive among educators and lawmakers who recognize the need for robust accountability measures in virtual education settings. However, some concerns have been expressed regarding the strict sanctions for truancy, particularly how they might disproportionately affect vulnerable student populations. While proponents argue that the bill will help foster better educational outcomes through increased student engagement, critics worry that it could lead to unnecessary disenrollment of students struggling with the challenges of remote learning.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include discussions about the potential implications for students who may face challenges in meeting attendance requirements due to personal circumstances. The provision that allows for withdrawal from the virtual charter school after two truancy reports within a school year raises concerns among educational advocates about equitable access to education. Critics fear that the bill could penalize students instead of providing the support needed to help them succeed in a virtual learning environment. The balance between enforcing attendance and ensuring that students receive the necessary help remains a crucial issue in the discussions on HB 2180.