81R11363 ALB-D
By: Olivo H.B. No. 4600
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to state policy regarding the imposition of disciplinary
actions in public schools.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter A, Chapter 37, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 37.0011 to read as follows:
Sec. 37.0011. PURPOSE AND INTENT. (a) The purpose of this
chapter is to provide disciplinary instructions for school
districts to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
(b) Excessive penal consequences and frivolous referrals
may not be used to disproportionately punish a student.
(c) A student's race, sex, social class, religion, or
economic background may not be factored into a disciplinary
decision made by a school district or a district employee or agent.
(d) Discipline may only be imposed to the extent that the
discipline is in the student's best interests.
(e) Academic advancement of each student shall remain a
consistent goal notwithstanding a school district's responsibility
to impose discipline necessary to maintain the safety and quality
of district schools.
(f) A school district shall promote academic achievement
for each student regardless of the student's enrollment in a
school, disciplinary alternative education program, or juvenile
justice alternative education program.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2009.