Tennessee House Bill HB0826

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Refer: 4/12/23
• Chaptered: 5/4/23
• Passed: 5/4/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to K-12 education.

Impact

The implications of HB 0826 for state laws regarding student discipline and educational administration are significant. It seeks to provide school directors with more discretion in handling cases involving suspended or expelled students, particularly regarding their reassignment to alternative educational settings. This could lead to a more tailored approach to student discipline, aiming to improve safety in both regular and alternative educational environments. However, it might also shift responsibilities onto school administrators who must make difficult judgments about student placements.

Summary

House Bill 0826 is proposed legislation aimed at amending Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, specifically concerning K-12 education. The bill addresses the assignment of students in grades seven through twelve who have been suspended for more than ten days or expelled from regular school programs due to offenses of violence or threats to safety. Under the proposed legislation, such a student would not automatically be assigned to an alternative school or program if it is situated on the same grounds as their original school or if their assignment could pose a safety risk to others.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 0826 appears to be mixed among legislators, educators, and advocacy groups. Proponents of the bill argue it protects student safety and acknowledges the unique circumstances of each case, potentially preventing further incidents of violence or disruption in schools. Conversely, critics express concerns that the bill could create loopholes that might allow students with serious behavioral issues to remain in mainstream classrooms, thus affecting the overall safety and learning environment of the school.

Contention

Notable points of contention during discussions about HB 0826 include debates over the balance between safety and educational opportunities for at-risk students. Some stakeholders argue that while safety is paramount, the legislation may inadvertently limit access to necessary educational support for students with behavioral challenges. The discussions reflect a broader concern about how disciplinary measures are implemented within schools and how laws like HB 0826 can impact the educational rights of students who may already be facing significant challenges in their personal lives.