Texas House Bill HB2703

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/4/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/30/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to classification of a prekindergarten or kindergarten student who is retained at the request of the student's parent.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2703 suggests a significant shift in how the state categorizes young students regarding academic risk. This change could potentially streamline the educational tracking process, allowing for a clearer distinction between students whose lack of advancement is due to parental intervention versus those who may actually be facing educational challenges. Schools will have to adapt to this new classification criteria, which may affect resource allocation and support services provided to students.

Summary

House Bill 2703 aims to amend the Texas Education Code regarding the classification of prekindergarten and kindergarten students who are retained in their current grade at the request of their parents. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that excludes students who have not advanced to the next grade level due solely to a parental request from being classified as at risk of dropping out of school. This highlights the role of parental choice in educational outcomes at early stages.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 2703 encapsulates a broader conversation about the balance between parental rights and standardized educational measures within the Texas education system. Its passage may reflect a trend toward recognizing the significance of family decisions in the early educational journeys of children while also raising questions about the long-term implications on educational metrics used to assess student success.

Contention

While the bill presents a straightforward amendment, it may invite discussions on the implications of parental involvement in educational decisions. Critics could argue that allowing parents to request retention may lead to inconsistent academic expectations across different districts and affect the overall academic progress of students. Conversely, supporters may view it as an empowering choice for parents, giving them the ability to make decisions they believe are in the best interests of their children.