South Dakota House Bill HCR6008

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Urging the Associated School Boards of South Dakota to immediately discontinue any affiliation with or participation in the National School Boards Association.

Impact

If adopted, HCR6008 reflects a significant stance regarding local governance and parental rights in educational settings. It is intended to strengthen the position of local school boards and enhance parental engagement without the fear of government reprisal. This move could initiate a larger conversation about the role of federal oversight in state education matters and the extent to which local entities align with or distance themselves from national organizations like the NSBA.

Summary

HCR6008 is a Concurrent Resolution introduced in the South Dakota Legislature, which urges the Associated School Boards of South Dakota to cease any affiliation with the National School Boards Association (NSBA). The resolution responds to a controversial letter sent by the NSBA, in which they suggested that certain activities at school board meetings constituted a threat and called for federal intervention. The resolution aims to assert that South Dakota does not support the labeling of concerned parents as domestic terrorists, a claim made without any substantiated evidence according to the text of the resolution.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding HCR6008 lies in its response to the actions of the NSBA and the broader implications for how parents and community members engage in local school governance. Supporters of the resolution argue that the NSBA's letter undermines parental rights and creates a hostile environment for public commentary on educational policies. Critics might view this resolution as politicizing education and potentially discouraging the positive collaboration that can benefit local schools and students. Overall, the resolution symbolizes a growing tension between local autonomy and national advocacy groups in education.